by ASJAD NAZIR
YOUNG Punjabi music talent being alive and well in the UK is perfectly illustrated by newcomer S-Jay and his debut single Dhoor.
The 16-year-old from Bedford went from being influenced by artists such as Sardool Sikander, Satinder Sartaaj, Gurdas Maan and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan to learning from acclaimed artist Popsy: The Music Machine. He spent two years learning from the ace music producer and worked hard for his debut single. Now he is looking forward to following in
the giant footsteps of his idols and have a thriving music career.
Eastern Eye continues its long proud tradition of supporting new talent by catching up with talented teenager S-Jay to find out more.
How was it working with an established name like Popsy: The Music Machine?
Working with Popsy was a dream come true. He is a talented musician and producer but beyond that, he’s a truly awesome human being, though he can be a very strict teacher. I was star-struck by being able to work with one of the most respected music producer’s in the industry. He was able to teach M-Digz (music producer for Dhoor) and me a lot about recording vocals and putting the music together. He was a great mentor in the studio. It was a dream come true to be able to work with The Music Machine.
Tell us about your song Dhoor?
Dhoor is a cover version of a song originally sung by my idol Sardool Sikanderji. It is undoubtedly my favourite song of all time. I am just grateful to the almighty for me having the privilege of being able to record professionally my favourite song of my idol, not that I’m in any way or form close to the master himself.
What are your hopes for the future?
My plans are to continue to learn and progress my vocals and understanding of music. Music to me is like an ocean, in that you can never see an end to it and can never stop learning. I hope to work with Popsy more closely, and hopefully release more projects in the future. My next song is being fully produced by my Ustadji Popsy: The Music Machine.
Who is your greatest musical hero?
My own musical hero has always been Sardool Sikander and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saab. Their vocal versatility and vocal range truly overwhelmed me when I first heard their music. Since then, I have always idolised their music and the different styles of vocals they can produce. Both are a huge inspiration to me.
What music dominates your playlist?
Everything that sounds good to me, but nothing in particular. I just love listening to music from years gone by to current, and in all genres.
What do your friends and family think about your debut song?
My family are really happy and proud of me; they know it was always a lifetime goal to be able to professionally record my vocals and work with a reputable producer like Popsy. My friends have been extremely supportive. Thank you all for your blessings and support.
Who would you love to sing a duet with?
I would love to sing a duet with my idol Sardool Sikanderji. He is the reason why I wanted to pursue the journey of music and working with him would be something I can only dream of.
Why do you love music?
Music brings soul into my life. It brings harmony to me and brings people together.
There are many religions, cultures and languages in the world, but you can take music from anywhere. Music is a language, religion and culture everyone is able to understand and respect. It brings the world together.
