Owolabi Jeremy Oluwasegun, better known as R3my Jay, is a creative force whose musical journey began long before he ever set foot on stage. Growing up with childhood memories steeped in music, he always had songs playing in his head and scribbled down lyrics in secret. It wasn’t until his debut project, Yunno the Drill, that he boldly Nigerianised the UK Drill genre, announcing to the world that his art was something fresh and unfiltered.
R3my Jay’s spirit is defined by his relentless drive and an unpretentious honesty—qualities that shine through every beat and verse. Despite a natural shyness when facing large crowds, performing is when he truly comes alive. For him, the biggest win isn’t found in chart-topping numbers or flashy accolades; it’s in the deep connection with the people who believe in his vision like die. That, he proudly says, is his greatest W—knowing that someone, somewhere is finding their own story in his music.
With his latest project, Now, Always, Forever: The Flashback, R3my Jay takes his experimental edge to new heights, fusing Afrobeats, hip-hop, and alternative sounds in a way that defies easy classification.
In this interview, we've learnt the different shades of R3my Jay beyond the beats and hooks— a storyteller at heart, a law graduate with a sharp mind for content marketing in the fintech and crypto space. Here's a deep dive into R3my Jay’s persona and get to connect with the person behind the music
How long have you been into music and what led you to find music?
My childhood memories start with music. I always made songs up in my head. Then at some point I started jotting them down, writing poems too. And man, I always wanted to share my creations with anyone who cared to listen! Make una come see weytin I dey do! It’s funny that I could feel shy if I had to speak to 10k people. But to sing my song to any crowd is the only time I feel alive. 500, 10k or 1 million people — bring it on.
Other artists you draw inspiration from?
Them many oh: Michael Jackson, Fela, Eminem, J Cole, P Square, Burna Boy, Asake, Zinoleesky, Rema, Juice Wrld, XXXTENTACION.
How would you describe his kind of music, does it have a term or genre or is it a fusion of different genres?
I would say Afrobeats, hip-hop & Alternative Music cause that's where everything stems from. But at the end of the day, I'm just out here having fun. Music is my life. I just dey talk about my journey. Na Afro-mood-wey-I-dey. I get bored easily so I flirt with a lot of sounds — and women. I’m not so heavy on demystifying music through genres. Classification is more of a consumer-end utility.
You have a great storytelling ability which is evident in your music, how would you describe the personal journey to honing your craft?
I've always been a writer at heart. I wrote stories, plays, poems, and drew comic books while growing up. So maybe where I am now as a storyteller has something to do with the 10,000 hour rule 😂. Now, I make most of my money through copywriting. I've never been much of a talker. Even my babies know I'm more of a texter. But I always have so much going on in my head, and I guess writing has always appealed to me as a means of communicating those things.
What impact did your cultural background have on your music?
I think Yoruba is a very musical and rich language. The intonation alone can be mesmerizing. It’s also a great language for puns if you know your way around.
Your greatest W so far in music?
I can honestly say I’ve had some notable W’s so far. But none of those metrics or impressions really matter to me. I think my greatest W are the people who believe in the R3my Jay vision like die. The ones who can connect with my music. I think that's the greatest W, that someone somewhere is finding their stories in mine.
Also, what are the general challenges you face in the music industry?
Every industry has its challenges so I don't like to complain or talk about them. It is what it is. Generally, human and financial resources are what you need to succeed. So building the right network and getting funding are naturally the main challenges. You need people and funds to execute your artistic vision. I'm an introvert who's not a yahoo boy. So naturally, I'm f*cked. 😂 But it’s motion over emotions. All na work in progress. I’ve got an idea or three.
Can you tell us about studies, other interests, passion & hobbies, guiding principles, family and personal relationships?
I'm a graduate of Law from Obafemi Awolowo University. On my way to Law school soon, so wish me luck.
My other interests aside music are music business, art, and entertainment. I'm a content marketer in the fintech and crypto niche. I love watching movies, eating, women, eating women and making music.
I come from a middle class Nigerian family. Sorry to bore you, but it’s the Pastors’-son-turned-artist cliché. I’m an only son blessed with three sisters I adore.
Any new or upcoming project you want to mention?
Right now, I’m taking a step back and figuring things out. Yunno the Drill Deluxe is coming. But for now, you can keep listening to YUNNO THE DRILL by R3my Jay. Oshamo!
Check out R3my Jay on Spotify
Posted by Abdulazeez A Shomade | Published on 2025-03-24 04:28:25