Interview with talented artist Hayreezy who is putting his own twist on alternative rap with his latest drop ‘Summer Vibrations’ taken from his ‘Inspired’ EP. The track features beautiful hazy vocals from Jody Clayton and a feature from frequent collaborator Touri$t, who Hayreezy previously teamed up with for the former’s ‘Doing Bits’ record. This one is the perfect soundtrack for the last days of late summer.
For the eagle eyed amongst us, Hayreezy may well have a familiar face having started his creative journey as an actor, securing roles in ‘Les Miserables’ and the smash hit film ‘Inbetweeners 2’.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Woke, Wavey and Motivated
Who has made the biggest impact on your life so far, and why?
This is unbelievably tough to answer – I would say Elijah from the Butterz team – as he’s someone who is family but also someone who I’ve seen grow and now is one of the best Dj’s in the country.
How did you get started in the business?
I used to freestyle a lot with my guys at parties or just in the kitchen and one day my boy showed his cousin who happened to be RaymanBeats from there we got acquainted and the rest is history really
Did you go to music school?
No I didn’t but I did go to acting school with Identity and I went for some high profile auctions through my acting agency at the time. So I’ve always been in the creative field.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Wavey, energniesed & smooth
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Kanye West & Skepta mostly. Kanye’s early persona was something I really connected with and Skepta’s raw London energy is something I’ve always fet apart of.
I chose to make music because truthfully I feel that I have something to say. The same detrimental message is being passed on and It’s time for the woke and wavey gxng to shine a new light.
Do you ever get nervous?
Not really if I’m honest, but I’m get frustrated as I have a high expectation for myself. So I always like to do something new when I perform or at least freestyle at a certain standard.
What is your next goal as a musician?
To be recognised as a one of the best musicians in London.
Do you have a Tour coming up or where we can see you performing?
I am supporting Touri$t this Saturday in Brixton and performing at Shoreditch boxpark on the last Sunday of October. So if you’re free definitely come down and see the kid.
Now tell us about your new single “‘Summer Vibrations?”
So this track is a real smooth vibe. Think late summer evening vibes. Produced by RaymanBeats featuring the smoothest vocals you’ll hear this year from Jodie Clayton aswell as a dope verse from Touri$t. The song is inspired by true events that used to take place almost every year when I was younger. That young and carefree energy enjoying life and living in the moment.
And about the success of your EP ‘Inspired?’
I’m super excited about this. My first project. 5 tracks that I really think represent what I’m about and really is a good indication of what’s to come from me. And I believe that Gangster Love will be a track the masses can really relate too. I really enjoyed working with Osym Beats, Louis Aura, Endless and RaymanBeats on this project. All of these producers have unbelievable talent.
What we can expect of Hayreezy in 2019/2020?
Lots more music and hopefully a UK tour. It’s definitely overdue
What is you favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Haha id probably say Kanye West “can’t tell me nothing” it’s just SUPER BOSS ENERGY !!
Now in the acting side, tell us about your roles in ‘Les Miserables’ and the smash hit film ‘Inbetweeners 2?’
So it was quite crazy how it came about but I was scouted for a role of a character that was actually duplicated 40x. That was a unique experience I was being filmed by four cameras at once to make myself 4D.
And the Inbetweeners movie was less exciting but still a good experience. I never realised the main guys were literally just being themselves for the whole movie!
Name one your strengths?
Im not afraid to fail.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Doing what I enjoy with the people I love. The company is as important as the activity.
Any loves other than music?
Yes! Film and football. I direct music videos for other artists in the industry and I really enjoy editing footage. And football has always been a huge part of my life as several of my friends are professional and you will catch me on the odd occasion still trying to live the dream. ha!
Any exiting news you want to share with us?
Yes – expect at least two more musical drops before the end of the year from me!!
How’s a typical day in your life?
A typical day consists of waking up. Making some breakfast. Then I will try and write some new music or I’ll be editing one of my videos. I will more than likely look at cheap flights anywhere haha I love to travel and then call Louis Aura and see when we can get in the studio next!
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Aki and saltfish with dumplings for brekkie, super Sunday with arsenal winning. Some family time with my brothers and then a live show In the evening. That for me is a day well spent.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Fruits. A fruit salad to be precise. You can’t go wrong with a good fruit salad.
And your favorite cheat food?
Ooooo it’s gotta be a Nando’s – it’s never failed me and I am forever grateful.
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
Someone who spends too much time on their phone. If we can’t get lost in the moment then what’s the point?
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Kanye West – he’s my biggest inspiration. I think he’s a musical genius and would love to pick his brain on his creative process.
Do you support any charities?
Yes the A star foundation. They do a lot of work with youth in my area – providing opportunities through sports and workshops to help keep kinds off the streets.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
Headlining Coachella god willing.
How would you describe your fashion style?
Urban Comfort with colour.
What do you think of Social Media?
It’s a great tool but should be used in moderation. I have to stay connected to the real world too.
Where we can follow you?
Everywhere at “Hayreezy”
Quote: if it’s impossible, shut up when I’m doing it.
Song: The Art Of Peer Pressure – Kendrick Lamar
Movie: Inglorious Bastards.
Travel Destination: Las Vegas.
Food: Fried fish and rice.
