Jay Sean

Jay Sean

Jay Sean is a 24 year old British-born Asian from Hounslow who left medical school in summer 2003 to pursue a music career. Growing up, Jay listened to a diverse range of artists from traditional Bollywood artists to R&B singers like Donnell Jones, Eric Benet, Boyz II Men and Musiq Soulchild.Jay also developed a intense passion for hip hop, becoming more and more inspired by the lyrical skills of Notorious BIG, Fu-Shnickens (who he studied for a ‘fast rap’ technique), Treach from Naughty by Nature, Grand Puba and Mobb Deep, to name a few. At 15, Jay became one half of hip-hop duo ‘Compulsive Disorder’, developing his double time rap skills while also working hard on his writing style. In his bedroom he began to amass cupboards full of A5 notepads full of lyrics and song compositions. His distinctive ‘British Wit’ paints an amusing picture of his life experiences so far.Around Christmas 2002, Jay’s demo made it’s way to Rishi Rich’s studio and within days he was signed to 2Point9 and plans were made immediately to launch him to the world. Rishi decided to include Jay in his debut Rishi Rich Project record – a project aimed to showcase up-and coming talent. Jay was signed to Relentless Records/Virgin Records in July 2003, the label responsible for hits such as Artful Dodger/Craig David – Rewind, Daniel Beddingfield – You gotta get thru this and Master of Ceremonies – Do you really like this. The critically acclaimed debut single “Dance with you (nachna tere naal)” featuring Juggy D reached number 12 in the UK charts in September 2003 and paved the way for Jay’s solo project released in early 2004.

Click here to listen to the interview again on our Jan 10th Show


Here's the interview conducted by your very own Anjula from DesiHitsRadio.

A cold evening in the UK’s capital soon warmed up when I managed to whisk away London’s hottest South Asian superstar. It was without doubt a real treat to catch up with Jay Sean after his live interview at the DesiHitsRadio.com studio. I got a chance to catch up with him 1on1 to get a genuine “up close and personal” interview exclusively for Nirvana Woman readers!

It simply goes without saying that Jay Sean is one of the most significant names in South Asian music history. As the UK's first South Asian crossover superstar Jay Sean broke through into the mainstream with his distinctive appeal, fusing 'Desi' rhythms with a credible R&B sensibility to produce a unique and authentic sound. Today, Jay Sean is undeniably one of the BIGGEST MUSIC SUPERSTAR OF THE SOUTH ASIAN DIASPORA.

A few facts about Jay Sean to get you started:JAY SEAN was the first South Asian to reach #1 on the UK Billboard charts with his hit single “Stolen”. The sexy music video also starred the glamorous and sultry Bipasha Basu.

JAY SEAN was the first South Asian Artist to go double platinum across two continents.

JAY SEAN signed a 2 million dollar deal with a major mainstream label

JAY’S STORY

Jay Sean is a 24 year old British-born Asian from West London who left medical school in summer 2003 to pursue his music career. Growing up, Jay listened to a diverse range of artists from traditional Bollywood to R&B singers like Donnell Jones, Eric Benet, Boyz II Men and Musiq Soulchild.Jay also developed an intense passion for hip hop, becoming more and more inspired by the lyrical skills of the Notorious B.I.G., Fu-Shnickens (who he studied for his ‘fast rap’ technique), Treach from Naughty by Nature and Mobb Deep, to name just a few. At 15, Jay became one half of hip-hop duo ‘Compulsive Disorder’ (the other half being ‘P’ from DesiHitsRadio.com) developing his double time rap skills while also working hard on his writing style. In his bedroom he began to amass cupboards full of A5 notepads full of lyrics and song compositions. His distinctive ‘British Wit’ paints an amusing picture of his life experiences so far.Around Christmas 2002, Jay’s demo made it’s way to Rishi Rich’s studio and within days he was signed to 2Point9 and plans were made immediately to launch him to the world. Jay was signed to Relentless Records/Virgin Records in July 2003, the label responsible for artists such as Craig David and Daniel Beddingfield. The critically acclaimed debut single “Dance With You (Nachna Tere Naal)” featuring Juggy D reached number 12 in the UK charts in September 2003 and paved the way for Jay’s solo project released in early 2004.

I have to comment that being in the studio with Jay was an amazing experience as he really is a truly talented artist. It was clear to me after a few hours in the studio with him, why, out of all the South Asian talent trying to break into the mainstream, he had made it. In those few hours he demonstrated his ability to rap freestyle, sing acoustic and perform on the spot with little or no prepping perfectly in tune. To hear his quick whit and charm for yourself check out the live interview on http://www.desihitsradio.com/


UP CLOSE & PERSONAL WITH JAY

ANJ: So Jay, when did you first fall in love with music?

When I saw the film“Yaar Rana” with Amitabh Bachan. Music has been in my blood forever and they found Amitabh Bachan in a village and made him a superstar because of his singing voice. He was the one who really inspired me to sing.

ANJ: What was the first film that really made an impact on you?

When I was around 13 I watched Rocky IV. I am going to admit, even though this is really embarrassing, that I was very fat! I watched the film and got so inspired I decided to go home and lose all the weight. So I got on an exercise bike, which lasted for all of five minutes!

(ANJ – it’s hard to believe that Jay was ever fat! But I will take his word for it!!)

ANJ: What would you like to say to your US listeners that do know you and those who have yet to find out who you are?

JS: Well firstly I would like to take a moment to say “respect” to my US fans who do know me as they have taken the time to find out who I am as I have not actively targeted the US market as of yet (ANJ: Jay seems to have his hands full at the moment – the screaming fans who are camped outside the studio are a clear indication of that! One never knows how fans find out about these discreet meetings! I was hoping to have a ‘secret rendezvous’ with Jay all by myself but no chance of that!!!). My stuff is not available in the US yet, unless it’s bootlegged, but hopefully I can come out and perform in a town near you soon and at the same time meet some of you.

As for your US readers that don’t know me I am sure there will be a little Indian guy with a moustache selling copies of my album so take some time and have a listen!

ANJ: Why has it taken you so long to make it over to the US!

JS: Well I am signed with EMI on a global contract and it’s just a case of getting high enough on the list of artists to make it over there. As you are aware they have HUGE artists that they represent so it’s just a case of getting on the rosta!

ANJ: So your name is just not on the list then!!? (As I am looking into this gorgeous man’ eyes it seems hard to believe that he wouldn’t be on the top of every list that ever existed!)

JS: Yep! My name is just not high enough on the list my darlin’ (ANJ: ooh I like that “darlin” bit – say it again Jay!!). I am looking at getting out of this contract and getting in with a label so I can get out there as when I performed there recently it was clear that there is scope out there for me. So I need to work with label that can get me out there faster, EMI America are just too slow. (ANJ: I know that Jay has already performed in both New York and San Francisco to huge audiences demonstrating his growing fan base).

ANJ: As an FYI Nirvana did an article on MTV Desi and they ear marked you as the next big thing to hit the US along with MIA and Raghav.

JS: Yeh I met the MTV desi guys when I was out there –so big up to the MTV Desi guys!

ANJ: I understand that you write a lot of your own material. Which song is closest to your heart?

JS: It has to be “Holding On”

ANJ: What are you holding on to!? (I am trying to flirt with this hot young thing, but unfortunately he is only holding on to his can of diet coke! Shame!)

JS: hahaha! Clive Davis (he says in jest. FYI Clive Davis is the Guru of R&B and the Founder of Arista Records and Chairman of BMG who signed some of the biggest artists in history). I was at a point in my life when I was really going through a tough time so it is really significant. Listen to the song and you will know. It was great and therapeutic to get this stuff down and then to create music from it.

ANJ: A lot of successful artists often re-create themselves over time - Madonna, MJ, Christina Aguilera etc. Where do you see yourself in five years?

JS: (In jest) the image I am going for is skirts and suspenders and hopefully in five years I would have progressed to be a fully fledged woman!!

ANJ: Yeh I can see that that, that would really suit you!! But seriously Jay?

JS: Who Knows! Every year things change and I don’t know where I will be then, I guess you will have to wait and see!

ANJ: So let me ask you this... are you today exactly who you would like to be, in terms of your image and the profile that is marketed out to the public? Is this true to you?

JS: Yep this is totally me. As I said to my label if the songs I am writing and the music I am making is true to me then at least let me look like myself. Of course I get advice and some direction, but what you see is what you get.

ANJ: So how do you get that liberty and freedom when so many other artists don’t?

JS: Well look, I had a great career before I got into music, I was on my way to becoming a doctor (ANJ: mmm, brains and good looks!! Wouldn’t mind you checking my heartbeat Jay!!) so if I was going to do this then it had to be the way I wanted to do it. (ANJ: I can see that this man really gets what he wants!)


ANJ: I am sure your female fans would like to know what you look for in a woman?

JS: I really look for someone I can have fun with and feel totally relaxed around. I am a kinda homely guy and I just want to have fun. She has to be my best mate and someone I can really chill with. She has to accept me for who I am and know that boys will be boys and I have to be able to be honest with her. I want to be able to tell her everything. (smiling .... ANJ: is there someone we don’t know about?).

ANJ: So are you comfortable in your own skin today and how has your success changed you.

JS: I have held on to all of my old friends and everything that is dear to me. There is a lot in this industry that can distract you but I keep myself grounded with the people who have always been around and who really matter. It can get lonely being on the road all the time and I miss the home comforts.

ANJ: Since you did the sexy hot music video with Bipashu Basu do you accept or deny the rumours that the two of you are now an item?

JS: Errrrrr, No comment! (with a huge grin)

ANJ: I really tried to get him to tell me but the fact that he wouldn’t comment in my mind says there could be something there!!! Oh well no chance for me then anyway!!Jay Sean Interview with Anjula Acharia-Bath from Nirvana Music and DesiHitsRadio.com LIVE FROM LONDON

A cold evening in the UK’s capital soon warmed up when I managed to whisk away London’s hottest South Asian superstar. It was without doubt a real treat to catch up with Jay Sean after his live interview at the DesiHitsRadio.com studio. I got a chance to catch up with him 1on1 to get a genuine “up close and personal” interview exclusively for Nirvana Woman readers!

It simply goes without saying that Jay Sean is one of the most significant names in South Asian music history. As the UK's first South Asian crossover superstar Jay Sean broke through into the mainstream with his distinctive appeal, fusing 'Desi' rhythms with a credible R&B sensibility to produce a unique and authentic sound. Today, Jay Sean is undeniably one of the BIGGEST MUSIC SUPERSTAR OF THE SOUTH ASIAN DIASPORA.

A few facts about Jay Sean to get you started:JAY SEAN was the first South Asian to reach #1 on the UK Billboard charts with his hit single “Stolen”. The sexy music video also starred the glamorous and sultry Bipasha Basu.

JAY SEAN was the first South Asian Artist to go double platinum across two continents.

JAY SEAN signed a 2 million dollar deal with a major mainstream label

JAY’S STORY
Jay Sean is a 24 year old British-born Asian from West London who left medical school in summer 2003 to pursue his music career. Growing up, Jay listened to a diverse range of artists from traditional Bollywood to R&B singers like Donnell Jones, Eric Benet, Boyz II Men and Musiq Soulchild.Jay also developed an intense passion for hip hop, becoming more and more inspired by the lyrical skills of the Notorious B.I.G., Fu-Shnickens (who he studied for his ‘fast rap’ technique), Treach from Naughty by Nature and Mobb Deep, to name just a few. At 15, Jay became one half of hip-hop duo ‘Compulsive Disorder’ (the other half being ‘P’ from DesiHitsRadio.com) developing his double time rap skills while also working hard on his writing style. In his bedroom he began to amass cupboards full of A5 notepads full of lyrics and song compositions. His distinctive ‘British Wit’ paints an amusing picture of his life experiences so far.Around Christmas 2002, Jay’s demo made it’s way to Rishi Rich’s studio and within days he was signed to 2Point9 and plans were made immediately to launch him to the world. Jay was signed to Relentless Records/Virgin Records in July 2003, the label responsible for artists such as Craig David and Daniel Beddingfield. The critically acclaimed debut single “Dance With You (Nachna Tere Naal)” featuring Juggy D reached number 12 in the UK charts in September 2003 and paved the way for Jay’s solo project released in early 2004.

I have to comment that being in the studio with Jay was an amazing experience as he really is a truly talented artist. It was clear to me after a few hours in the studio with him, why, out of all the South Asian talent trying to break into the mainstream, he had made it. In those few hours he demonstrated his ability to rap freestyle, sing acoustic and perform on the spot with little or no prepping perfectly in tune. To hear his quick whit and charm for yourself check out the live interview on http://www.desihitsradio.com/


UP CLOSE & PERSONAL WITH JAY
ANJ: So Jay, when did you first fall in love with music?

When I saw the film“Yaar Rana” with Amitabh Bachan. Music has been in my blood forever and they found Amitabh Bachan in a village and made him a superstar because of his singing voice. He was the one who really inspired me to sing.

ANJ: What was the first film that really made an impact on you?

When I was around 13 I watched Rocky IV. I am going to admit, even though this is really embarrassing, that I was very fat! I watched the film and got so inspired I decided to go home and lose all the weight. So I got on an exercise bike, which lasted for all of five minutes!

(ANJ – it’s hard to believe that Jay was ever fat! But I will take his word for it!!)

ANJ: What would you like to say to your US listeners that do know you and those who have yet to find out who you are?

JS: Well firstly I would like to take a moment to say “respect” to my US fans who do know me as they have taken the time to find out who I am as I have not actively targeted the US market as of yet (ANJ: Jay seems to have his hands full at the moment – the screaming fans who are camped outside the studio are a clear indication of that! One never knows how fans find out about these discreet meetings! I was hoping to have a ‘secret rendezvous’ with Jay all by myself but no chance of that!!!). My stuff is not available in the US yet, unless it’s bootlegged, but hopefully I can come out and perform in a town near you soon and at the same time meet some of you.

As for your US readers that don’t know me I am sure there will be a little Indian guy with a moustache selling copies of my album so take some time and have a listen!

ANJ: Why has it taken you so long to make it over to the US!

JS: Well I am signed with EMI on a global contract and it’s just a case of getting high enough on the list of artists to make it over there. As you are aware they have HUGE artists that they represent so it’s just a case of getting on the rosta!

ANJ: So your name is just not on the list then!!? (As I am looking into this gorgeous man’ eyes it seems hard to believe that he wouldn’t be on the top of every list that ever existed!)

JS: Yep! My name is just not high enough on the list my darlin’ (ANJ: ooh I like that “darlin” bit – say it again Jay!!). I am looking at getting out of this contract and getting in with a label so I can get out there as when I performed there recently it was clear that there is scope out there for me. So I need to work with label that can get me out there faster, EMI America are just too slow. (ANJ: I know that Jay has already performed in both New York and San Francisco to huge audiences demonstrating his growing fan base).

ANJ: As an FYI Nirvana did an article on MTV Desi and they ear marked you as the next big thing to hit the US along with MIA and Raghav.

JS: Yeh I met the MTV desi guys when I was out there –so big up to the MTV Desi guys!

ANJ: I understand that you write a lot of your own material. Which song is closest to your heart?

JS: It has to be “Holding On”

ANJ: What are you holding on to!? (I am trying to flirt with this hot young thing, but unfortunately he is only holding on to his can of diet coke! Shame!)

JS: hahaha! Clive Davis (he says in jest. FYI Clive Davis is the Guru of R&B and the Founder of Arista Records and Chairman of BMG who signed some of the biggest artists in history). I was at a point in my life when I was really going through a tough time so it is really significant. Listen to the song and you will know. It was great and therapeutic to get this stuff down and then to create music from it.

ANJ: A lot of successful artists often re-create themselves over time - Madonna, MJ, Christina Aguilera etc. Where do you see yourself in five years?

JS: (In jest) the image I am going for is skirts and suspenders and hopefully in five years I would have progressed to be a fully fledged woman!!

ANJ: Yeh I can see that that, that would really suit you!! But seriously Jay?

JS: Who Knows! Every year things change and I don’t know where I will be then, I guess you will have to wait and see!

ANJ: So let me ask you this... are you today exactly who you would like to be, in terms of your image and the profile that is marketed out to the public? Is this true to you?

JS: Yep this is totally me. As I said to my label if the songs I am writing and the music I am making is true to me then at least let me look like myself. Of course I get advice and some direction, but what you see is what you get.

ANJ: So how do you get that liberty and freedom when so many other artists don’t?

JS: Well look, I had a great career before I got into music, I was on my way to becoming a doctor (ANJ: mmm, brains and good looks!! Wouldn’t mind you checking my heartbeat Jay!!) so if I was going to do this then it had to be the way I wanted to do it. (ANJ: I can see that this man really gets what he wants!)


ANJ: I am sure your female fans would like to know what you look for in a woman?

JS: I really look for someone I can have fun with and feel totally relaxed around. I am a kinda homely guy and I just want to have fun. She has to be my best mate and someone I can really chill with. She has to accept me for who I am and know that boys will be boys and I have to be able to be honest with her. I want to be able to tell her everything. (smiling .... ANJ: is there someone we don’t know about?).

ANJ: So are you comfortable in your own skin today and how has your success changed you.

JS: I have held on to all of my old friends and everything that is dear to me. There is a lot in this industry that can distract you but I keep myself grounded with the people who have always been around and who really matter. It can get lonely being on the road all the time and I miss the home comforts.

ANJ: Since you did the sexy hot music video with Bipashu Basu do you accept or deny the rumours that the two of you are now an item?

JS: Errrrrr, No comment! (with a huge grin)

ANJ: I really tried to get him to tell me but the fact that he wouldn’t comment in my mind says there could be something there!!! Oh well no chance for me then anyway!!