We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Yurboy Jay a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Yurboy , thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
I draw my resilience from a combination of personal experiences and my passion for music. Growing up in a community where music was a powerful form of expression, I learned to navigate challenges and setbacks while staying true to my artistic vision. The support from my family and team also plays a significant role in my resilience. They remind me of the importance of persistence and creativity in overcoming obstacles. Additionally, the rich history of Afrobeats and its roots in resilience inspires me to keep pushing forward, no matter the difficulties I face.”
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Thank you for this opportunity! I’m an Afrobeat artist passionate about blending traditional African sounds with contemporary influences. My journey began in Nigeria, where I joined the youth choir at my church, a foundational experience that ignited my love for music.
What excites me most about my work is the ability to connect with people through music, sharing stories of love and resilience that resonate universally. Right now, I’m focused on promoting my project “HighBrid,” and I’m also working on new singles and future projects that I’m truly excited about.
I invite everyone to join me on this journey as we celebrate the power of music and the vibrant culture it represents.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey as an Afrobeat artist are resilience, creativity, and cultural awareness.
Resilience helps me overcome challenges, creativity allows me to develop a unique sound, and cultural awareness deepens my connection with my audience.
For those starting out, stay true to your vision and keep honing your skills. Embrace your unique path and keep moving forward
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was moving me and my siblings back to Nigeria. This decision profoundly shaped my identity and connection to my cultural roots. It exposed me to the rich musical heritage of my homeland, which has greatly influenced my work as an Afrobeat artist. This experience not only enriched my life but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for my culture and the stories I now share through my music.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Itsyurboyjay
- Facebook: Yurboy Jay
- Twitter: @itsyurboyjay
- Youtube: Yurboy Jay
Image Credits
Fransorm studios Winford studios
