By Nicholas Jason Lopez
Armed with both a lyrical wit and a tried-and-true DIY attitude, “Straight Outta Compton” takes on a new meaning in 2022, as independent artist JaySol hides no pride when it comes to his latest single “Payroll,” a musical nod to influences that include the company of Kota The Friend, Mike Jenkins, Sade and Cordae.
Although it clocks out at just over two minutes, “Payroll” does what it has to in that time – as JaySol delivers a flow reminiscent of other hip-hop up-and-comers like Jack Harlow, Jordan Hollywood and Jehry Robinson, backed by razor-sharp production that leaves us in need of more – perhaps by design.
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with him about “Payroll” and more.
Music Bugle – How would you describe Compton to someone who has never been there before?
JaySol – I mean, Compton to me is home. It’s a city that is alive and has created some of the most Iconic artists in the music industry. I feel like Compton isn’t as active as it used to be when I was growing up in the 90’s and 00’s, but there are still some places you got to be aware of. Is it safe to walk your dog at night? Probably not. (Laughs) Compton has some fire-ass food joints that you got to try out, though. Louis’ Burgers is a must, along with King Egg Roll and Louisiana Fried Chicken. If you visit Compton, don’t try to be anything you’re not, because that’s the energy you’ll draw towards you, but in the end, the city is always going to be the city.
Music Bugle – What excites you the most about your style of music?
JaySol – The diversity of my sound is what excites me the most. Being able to reach different people with different songs and messages will always be a win for me. The passion that’s put into each song is like giving a piece of who I am. Lately, I’ve been releasing more uptempo club vibe records, but I’ve been working on my next project and what’s on there will have a lot more depth.
Music Bugle – What inspired the “JaySol” name?
JaySol – So, I actually used to go by the name of “Kalay,” but I decided to transition to “Jaysol.” My full name is Jawon Saul Corona, so “Jay” for the first part and “Sol” for my middle name initial, which is also the Spanish word for “sun.” I feel like we receive our energy from the sun. I do a lot of meditating and have been on a spiritual journey. I also liked the soul aspect since a lot of early hip-hop was sampled from soul music, so it can be used as a double entendre. Being mixed with Black, Mexican and Puerto Rican also helped me combine the name with the latin word ‘Sol.’ I’ve dabbled in some latin trap music and will continue to do so in the future.
Music Bugle – Which of your musical influences do you feel are most present in your work?
JaySol – Lyrically, I feel I’ve been on a more Cordae/Cole vibe when it comes to the material I’ll be putting out that’s on the album. Melodically, I’ve honestly been playing around with different things. Not sure who I can say was the influence there, but in my earlier years, I did listen to Drake, Travis Scott, Kid Cudi and Sade. Delivery-wise, I can transition from an aggressive performance to a more laid-back “Rico Suave”-ish type of vibe, but I have gotten Jack Harlow comparisons when I do the more “braggadocios” approach.
Music Bugle – What has been your hardest challenge lately?
JaySol – Music marketing is probably the thing that has been an issue and as an independent artist, it’s more of the financial aspect of it. Lately, I’ve been doing better and progression is always better than perfect. At this point, it’s just making sure the content I’m creating is relatable and has social currency attached to it.
Music Bugle – What is your current “guilty pleasure”?
JaySol – I’ve been reading a lot into my horoscope! (Laughs) It’s like when days are weird, I open my phone and either go to this Instagram page that I follow and see what they said about my sign or hit Google and look at the top link that pops up on horoscopes. Leo Gang!
Music Bugle – What’s a quote that motivates you to keep doing what you do?
JaySol – “Not Impossible, I’m Possible.” I have this quote written on my wall in white chalk. Every time I wake up, I say it out loud at least 23 times. It lets me know that nothing is impossible, that anything can be done and I’m here to make sure it will be done.
Music Bugle – Does social media help or hurt musicians?
JaySol – Social media can be the thing that blows up your career or it can be the thing that ends it. Being on social media everyday isn’t healthy and I can see a lot of artists comparing their chapters to other people’s chapters and it can be a motivation killer at times, because you put a lot of work into the content you create and sometimes, the algorithm won’t be on your side or your peers wont support you until the rest of the world does. Create music for the love of it, put the passion behind it, have a plan and make sure you’re growing. Use social media as the tool and make sure you’re enjoying the journey, instead of comparing where someone else is at. Have a plan and make social media your friend.
Music Bugle – Where do you go when you need a break?
JaySol – The beach is definitely my place to find balance. I’m either there physically, or I’ll meditate and create one. (Laughs)
Music Bugle – What do you hope for by the end of 2022?
JaySol – I hope for growth. I really want people to recognize me as an artist and have a solid fanbase. I want to continue to be proud of the projects I released and already having the plan ready for the 2023 endeavors.
