Music has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember.
But it was when poet and musician Jaysus Zain discovered hip hop that he realized just how potent words could be. Spoken word and poetry became his outlet: enabling the young artist to process his emotions and connect more deeply within. Although heavily inspired by great artists such as Tupac, hip hop also led Jaysus to reconnect with the legacy of poetry and spoken word found in African and Arab cultures. These are cultures that have always used the power of words to express themselves, educate, and unite people, but also to tackle political, spiritual, and social issues. It has been a long journey thus far but his commitment and passion have taken him to heights he never imagined possible. We caught up with the spoken word virtuoso to know more about his work and life in general.
How has been your music journey like?
Working towards making a living out of my passion was inevitable, and living in the UAE has truly supported this dream. I am blessed enough to be able to continue to refine my craft through all international tours and performances I’ve done. Although my musical journey is far from being at its beginning, I sure hope I have a long way in front of me as an artist.
Please walk us through being part of Charlie Sloth's Booth. How did that come about?
I was approached by the Apple Music Team and Nomad and was told that I was selected to have my own fire in the booth episode, I was told that the producers were shocked that this level of artistry exist on this side of the world and Charlie Sloth himself said in an interview that he was paying attention to my music and heard about me before the episode finally came about.
What's a core message that you would like your listeners to get from you? Whether it's spoken word or rap.
A common thread through most of my art I would say is hope and faith. That we all have the capacity within ourselves to heal and overcome challenges. But also that we need one another, and that love, friendship, and community are powerful tools of our human experience.
A common thread through most of my art I would say is hope and faith. My perfectionism has served as a driver – pushing me to keep refining my work
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HOMEGROWN is musivv’s segment dedicated to featuring UAE-based artists. Features under this segment are eligible for a nomination under this category on The musivv Awards (TMAs) annual recognition.
