With the new wave of melody-heavy and afrobeats-inspired artists rising through the ranks of UK music in the past year or so, Jay Silva has remained relatively quiet, despite becoming something of a forerunner of the sound with his breakout single “See Me Now”.
He did touch base with his fans towards the back end of 2017, letting fly a couple of singles at once, before amassing another GRM plaque with his video for “Find A Way” featuring Brandz. That’s nothing, however, for what he’s got his sights on in 2018.
We caught up with Jay Silva at GRM HQ, to find out what he’s up to thanks to the people at Converse, as he joined in on the launch of their new crep. Find out who his style icons are, some of his essential wardrobe items, as well as a little exclusive on the name of his forthcoming new EP.
How would you describe your own personal style?
“Quirky. Different. Unusual. That’s what I think I am. I’m not the typical person… you never know what’s next, you know what I’m saying?”
What kind of fit are you wearing whilst in the studio versus at shows?
“To be honest, I’m not a flashy person, I just wear whatever I’m most comfortable with. I’m not just going to follow a brand because it’s popping for one minute.
“If I’m in the studio I’ll just wear a trackie. If I’m at a show, trackie as well (laughs). It is what it is!”
How has being from East London influenced your style?
“When I was young, I wasn’t aware that my area was really known for its music, for grime music. It’s a thing I learned throughout the years as I’ve learned more about music and stuff.
“It’s influenced me in the way that – I don’t think there’s anyone my age really putting my area on the map the way I’m doing, without trying to sound cocky – but yeah I try to represent for my borough in everything I do.”
Who were your style icons growing up? What kind of artists do you look to for inspiration?
“That’s a really good question. I think Akon you know. I know that’s a weird one init? The way he wore his clothes was baggy, he just didn’t care. I was like rah, this is a bit out the circle! His “Ghetto” video was too sick, an old school one. Akon has got some hits!”
How important is it for you to be unique: in what you wear and in the music you make?
“It’s very important. I don’t want people to listen to my music and think they’ve heard this before. I want people to be like ‘woah, wow’. I like them to try and compare me to someone and failing. I love that reaction. For me it’s important to be unique like that, not just in music, but in what I do in everything. It can be anything; clothing, what you wear, just what you’re doing init. It’s good to be different.”
What are some must-have items essential for any outfit?
“It depends on your mood on the day. You need trainers that compliment a good trackie, a certain type of trainer.
“If you’re wearing ripped jeans or something, then something like these Converse would really compliment it. Those kind of combinations are essential. A denim jacket would definitely compliment them as well. I actually needed some of these, they’re top of my list now (laughs).”
Today you’re wearing the new Converse One Star’s – what is it you like about them?
“They’re simple and subtle. Black and white, straight to the point. I’m not a person that likes too many colours and these are just classic. You put them on and go, you know what I’m saying? I like them a lot.”
What else are you up to right now? What’s coming next for Jay Silva?
“I’m working on my first EP. It’s name is very funny actually, it’s Italian. It’s called Tutti Frutti, which means all flavours. The EP is going to consist of many different genres and that’s what I’m all about. That word is something I grew up with. It’s a juice flavour that I’ve always loved since I was a kid. It just makes sense.
“It’s going to be six new tracks and I think for one of them, I’m going to record a video for it, because it’s going to be a banger.”
The Converse One Star Premium Suede is available to purchase online now.