RESPECT. Interview: Jay 305’s Time Has Come

Image credit: OPM/Interscope

In the Rap industry, it’s easy to have a hit record for a few months, but its difficult trying to maintain it. That feeling of knowing you worked hard for something, and just like that its taken from you. But instead of letting life get you down, you roll with the punches and keep grinding. L.A.’s own Jay 305 is a true example of how to bounce back — he went from recording the hit single “Youzza Flip” to having life go upside down in a matter of months. From having issues with the law to today (3 years later), Jay 305’s story is nothing short of amazing. If that doesn’t inspire you to chase your dreams, then I don’t know what will.

After releasing his latest single titled “All Around the World” featuring YG, Jay 305 is officially back with his new album Taking All Bets. Recently, RESPECT. was able to sit down with the West Coast emcee to speak on the music, fellow peers/collaborations and more.

RESPECT: It’s been a year since the release of your last project titled Inner City Hero, how does it feel to have your debut album finally drop?

It’s a real blessing, it feels like I’m in the playoffs and I’m about to win it all!

RESPECT: What was the inspiration behind Taking All Bets?

The inspiration behind the album was all the gambles in life I’ve taken. I’ve always had to gamble with my life and take chances. Some legal and some illegal but they were a gamble to say the least. I live life based on the principle of no risk, no reward.

RESPECT: You and Dom Kennedy have been cool for years, can we expect any features from him on the album?

Most definitely, we got this real nice record titled “Pretty Girls,” produced by the great Mike And Keys, the best to ever do it!

RESPECT: From the looks of your Instagram, it seems as if you’re into fashion. What has been your influence behind your style over the years?

I’m not new to this, here at OPM, we been fly. I like to describe my style as streetwear couture. I’m hit you with the Dickies, mixed with the Balmain jacket, off the Raf’s, Van’s or Air Jordan’s. It’s easy.

RESPECT: What else can we expect from you this year?

You can expect to see me on tour hopefully, touring up and living life, more music videos and more beautiful women than you could imagine!