distantJAY

Hailing from Leeds, West Yorkshire, it seems that for 19-year-old artist distantJAY, the term 'rapper', though of considerable convenience at this stage, doesn't quite encapsulate both his vision for his career and thus far his execution. 

A gifted storyteller, his introspective lyricism often deals with mature themes of love, depression, emotional unavailability, and his unique experiences as a young black man in modern day England. Having released music sporadically since the age of 16, much of which can be found on his Soundcloud page, he has amassed over 15,000 listens in total. He released his first official single, "the sun", a heartfelt tribute to his girlfriend, earlier this year on Spotify and Apple Music.

Growing up listening to predominantly US hip hop influences from the likes of current heavyweights Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, the jazz sensibilities of former Odd Future ringleader Tyler the Creator as well as the lyrical prowess of fellow OF member Earl Sweatshirt, it is clear to see some of the influences have shaped both distantJAY's sound and direction, offering a unique musical approach to that of his contemporaries in the UK scene.