JAY SWISHES SHOULD BE ON YOUR RADAR.

Jay Swishes, a Brooklyn-based emerging rapper, was surrounded by music throughout his upbringing as his mother sang in the church choir and his father was a former DJ. Given this background, it is clear that Swishes’ sound is strongly influenced by his roots, not only in terms of merging elements of gospel and pop in his tracks, but also by incorporating lyricism that pays tribute to his experience growing up in Brooklyn.

This year, Jay Swishes released “Red”, a track that speaks to his upward trajectory and rapid growth as an artist. “Red” draws listeners in by featuring smooth piano instrumentals that are augmented by faint, echoing vocals to create an ethereal sound. Swishes contrasts these soft elements with a tight, brassy beat that drives forward the song. In order to play off this multi-layered instrumental and rhythmic backdrop, Jay Swishes pivots between a tight flow that matches the beat and slower melodic vocalizations that build off the softer elements of the track. As Swishes’ vocals reinforce the instrumental and rhythmic qualities of “Red”, he is able to clearly dictate his lyrics and thus portray his world to listeners without overpowering any other element of the song. Overall, “Red” is a phenomenal track and Jay Swishes will undoubtedly continue to impress audiences as he releases future projects. 

Contributor: Anjali Miller