Music News recently caught up with Jay Sean to talk about living across the pond, his superstar friendship group (including a certain Ms Minaj) and his plans for the New Year....take a look below....
You have worked with some big names over in the US, Lil Wayne and Sean Paul to name a few, who have you got your eye on next for a collaboration with?
You know I've been very fortunate to have worked with some of the most prolific and talented artists out there, from Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj to Mary J Blige and Busta Rhymes. I really can't ask for more!
Does hanging out with people like Nicki Minaj overwhelm you or are you pretty unfazed by it all now?
As artists, we respect each others craft and if we're lucky enough to strike up a friendship, we consider each other peers. Nicki is cool as hell, talented and down to earth. She's a sweetheart. We all respect each others grind, especially since we're signed to the same label.
How do you find living in the US, what are the best bits?
I love it there to be honest. I think a change of scenery is healthy. It's almost like a reset button and a chance to start to appreciate everything all over again. To hustle, to watch things grow and see your career blossom. It gives me a sense of achievement to see what I did. What most artists dream of. And it makes me want to keep it. I like that they celebrate success out there, instead of being so cynical and wanting to watch you fall, they want to see people reach the top because it gives them hope. Its like The Rocky story.
The UK scene is doing very well at the moment, who has been your favourite in 2011 and who do you think will shine in 2012?
I've always felt proud of the UK's urban scene finally getting its recognition. I started off in that scene 10 years ago, when people laughed at the thought of UK hip hop cracking the top 10. I worked with Skepta and BBK, Chipmunk, Tinie Tempah, Wiley, all before they blew up, I guess we got the last laugh because now that's all radio in UK seems to play!
Can you give us a peek into what you have planned in the New Year?
I'll be performing in New York, and what better way than to bring it in with my song featuring Nicki Minaj, "2012"!?
Finally can you give a message out to Music News fans?
Big up and respect always for your ongoing love and support, you're the reason I'm still allowed to do what I love most everyday of my life and for that I'm eternally grateful. Watch out: 2012 is gonna be a massive year, new album out 1st quarter, plus FREE album on www.jayseanworldwide.com right now, 15 rnb tracks, called "The Mistress" go get it!
Check out Jay's track '2012' with Nick Minaj below and get in the spirit for New Year's celebrations!
