Hailing from Angeles, Philippines, 22-year-old Jay Kent is unapologetically queer and occupies the intersection of R&B and pop.
Alongside EP Entertainment, she’s developing her eclectic debut project with the likes of AyoTheProducer (Cardi B/Lil Wayne), Imani (City Girls/Quavo), ClickNPress Alessia Cara/Dreamville), and Soko7 (Beyoncé), amongst others. Her unique tone has helped her garner over 130k followers and 1.2 million likes on TikTok.
Jay’s single “Texting” was released earlier this year and it’s an homage to the ever-opaque sapphic situationship. “Texting” finds Jay caught in a chronically online romance complicated by broken-down communication, yet oozing with irresistible sensuality.
What's the story behind your single "Texting"?
"'Texting' is a story about a relationship that avoids confrontation, people nowadays do everything online. They text and FaceTime. I can’t count how many times I’ve seen relationships start and end that way. This song was to talk about how people shouldn’t be afraid to talk in person."
What was a moment you loved while working on your debut project?
Working on my music with so many talented and incredible people is definitely the “stand out” for me. I love being able to learn new things and absorb knowledge about something I love to do. Being surrounded by people with such good energy and good vibes."
What challenges have you faced as a young artist in the industry, and how have you overcome them?
I can’t count how many times I’ve been put down for the way I look and my sexuality. I’ve been told that the norm is the only way to go and I guess embracing who you are is the only way to overcome all that. I’ve learned that we should stop caring about what people think, it’s either they like you or they don’t. It’s better to keep the people that matter the most and continue doing what you love to do without caring about what people say about you.
What's your favorite/least favorite thing about making music?
It’s very difficult for me to have a favorite thing about music when I enjoy every bit of it. The process of making it, the end of the track when you finally get to hear the result, the reactions people make when they hear it. That’s the joy for me. I guess if I were to have a least favorite thing, maybe the lack of sleep? Haha. That’s on me though.
What is your top networking tip for connecting with the right people in music e.g. a manager or a record label?
I don’t actually know the answer to this one, I never really looked for them. I just keep uploading content and try to make videos that I think people would enjoy. Something light and easy but different. I was incredibly lucky to have been found by EP Entertainment and I’ll forever be grateful to them. They’ve really opened a lot of doors for me when it comes to music.
How do you use social media to connect with your audience/share your music?
For me, social media is just a fun way to express yourself. You have total control over what you do and I guess at the end of the day, you attract people that love what you do. I’m not really good at the whole marketing perspective on that. I just be me and hope for the best."
If you could collaborate with any artist who would it be and why?
I would love to do a song with Beyonce. That’s if I don’t get rushed to the ER just being near her presence. I’m in love with her. Absolutely in love.
What's the most unexpected source of inspiration you've drawn from for your music?
I get inspired at the most random times, like I noticed most of them is when I’m in the shower. Haha, though my emotions play a big part. Especially when I’m in love or when I’m sad. That’s when I end up pouring my heart out the most."
