Today we’d like to introduce you to Karima Jay.
Hi Karima, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started singing since I could talk. I remember memorizing the song “Killing Me Softly With His Song” by Fugees, and I’d be singing it all day, every day to the point where my grandma used to yell and say, “Karima! Your killing me softly with that song”! So then my mom bought me all the American Idol video games since she could tell singing was my passion. I memorized every single song in the game, all genres. That’s where I was able to really practice and enhance my vocals. I went on to singing at different middle school and high school events. I started writing my own lyrics in the 6th grade. I’ve been writing since.
I started realizing that music was not just my passion but my destiny when I was about 23 years old after I had my two children. Something happened to where I decided I was going to attempt my dream. I didn’t want to get old and regret not at least trying my best to share with the world my gift. Three years later, I’ve released a 6 song EP and 4 singles. I’ve been invited to perform at over 30 different locations. I’ve went as far as to own my own Entertainment company (Jay Music Entertainment), where I help other artists share their gift. It has definitely been a roller coaster, but when the high is at its peaks, I feel right where im supposed to.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It most definitely has not been a smooth road. As a woman who is alone, no family members or friends in the industry, I had to go through so many things to get where I am today. I had to prove to LA that I am to be respected. I consistently had to prove that I am different, that I am chosen, that I have a specific duty Yahweh has given me. In the beginning not many could hear me. But as the lyrics go in my song “Big Moves” I let everyone know, “You can sleep on me now, but you’ll be awake soon.”
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a singer and songwriter. I can write music to a beat and without a beat. As of right now, I am known as a businesswoman. I started my company in April of 2022, and since then I have gotten recognition from many as a business owner. I am extremely proud of myself for being able to manage being a mother of two, an artist, and now an owner of an entertainment company. What sets me apart from others in my opinion is the way I play chess. I plan things strategically. It took me a year to plan and create my first EP (H.I.M Vol.1), but it was well worth the time. I also have a way with speaking to individuals to where they don’t forget who I am after our conversation. I am not shy. I will make sure the entire room heard my name and what I do at any event.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
For any artist who is starting out, just know that it takes time. Don’t feel discouraged because your rate of succession is not the same as other individuals around you. Many try to make it look easy, but in the background, they are suffering. Don’t give in to the social media mentality. So many people purchase their followers and likes on Instagram. So many pay to promote themselves on these platforms to get engagement. So don’t compare yourself. Be happy with where your at in your journey. At least your on your way and not still sitting down procrastinating.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/karimajay
- Twitter: http://twitter.com/karimaxjay
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCU85OCcoIfrJnUNQ9AlCe0w
- SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/qf2FJrwTSSKVUj7s8
Image Credits
Omar Gooding
