Rising singer-songwriter and producer Teejay is swiftly becoming one of the most quintessential names in the dancehall scene. He’s collaborated with an eclectic array of A-list talent – from Kodak Black to Giggs and Stefflon Don, and has recently dropped a highly impressive new EP, “I Am Chippy”.
The project, which was unveiled in early February, sees Teejay enlist a variety of Jamaican artists – such as Tommy Lee Sparta, Skillibeng and Bayka – for strong turns. Teejay himself excels across a spritely array of instrumentation, delivering captivating performances and sharp lyrical prowess.
We caught up with the rising star to discuss the making of the new project, the Jamaican music landscape, and what inspires him to create.
Listen to the EP…
Read the interview…
Hey Teejay! Thanks for chatting with us. Congratulations on your new EP! Talk us through the making and meaning of the project?
“I Am Chippy” means a lot to me. Most of these songs were from 2020 during the pandemic. When creating a record like “Drift”, I decided that I’m going to make a body of work around the song itself. So yeah, it was a journey.
We’re loving the recent remix of “Drift” with Davido. Can you tell us the story behind this collaboration? What was the creative process like and what makes this an important moment for the landscape?
Well, the vibe from “Drift”, I think the energy, the beat, everything was so authentic. Davido had no choice but to like the sound! He wanted to be the first international artist to collab on the track, so it was a great idea. I mean, 200 million people living in Nigeria. Come on, people need to know who is Teejay. For the culture, it means a lot.
Can you walk us through your upbringing? What initially led you to pursue a career in music, and which artists or experiences have influenced your musical journey?
I grew up in music. Seeing my mother sing and everything in the church, brothers playing drums. Everybody loved music in my yard, you know? So, I decided to do music at a tender age from when I was nine, and then from there it was just greatness.
How would you describe your overall musical style and the genre with which you feel most closely aligned?
I would say my style is multifaceted. Because I man can sing, I man can DJ, I man entertain the people.
Jamaica has a rich musical landscape with diverse genres and influences. How do you navigate this musical diversity in your own work?
I just sing for the people. As I said before, I entertain the people so no matter what’s going on in the country, I keep my focus on being an entertainer, just singing for people. I make positive music, and sometimes a little bit of negative too.
You’re now signed with Warner Music. How do you see this new chapter of your artistry, and what excites you most about it?
I know to just keep on putting in the work. People have to remember this is a record label, they don’t just take up money and give it to you if you’re not putting in the work. Once you’re doing the right work, the label will do what they’re supposed to do. Greatness is going to happen!
How do you view collaboration? What inspires you when writing and producing music?
I collaborate with a lot of people. You know, life itself should be about collaborating. People getting to know each other, bringing different vibes to the next generation. So, anybody who wants to do music, I’m hoping to do music with them same way.
How do you reflect on 2023? And what are you most looking forward to in 2024?
Well, I man is not a profit you know. But I believe in greatness and once you put in the work, you can achieve anything. Nothing is impossible. So, for 2024 it’s always about greatness for me. Last year was a great year, so I’m just trying to make this year greater.
As an artist, how do you see your music evolving or expanding in the future?
Big, huge, large, humongous, anything you want to call it. Because again, it’s about the work you put in to evolve. You know Rome was never built in one day, so it’s going to take a little time but you never know, today or tomorrow, what sounds can be promised.
Are there any new projects or collaborations on the horizon that you’d like to share with us?
Yeah, I’ve got a lot of upcoming projects you know. Got some BIG shows too but just look out for my website so you can follow up on Teejay. My shows, new music, new videos… Everything!