An rnb artist signed under the record label - mob entertainment (Zimbabwe) based in Harare. He started taking music professionally in 2006 under the mentor ship of mob-figgaz & has grown ever since. His sound is largely based on situations & people around him & his creativity being the secret essence.
7:30 Apparel had a word with the rnb superstar and spoke extensively about his dreams and aspirations.....
Name
Jameson ‘JAY’ Mashaire
How did the artist/band get their name?
My artist name ‘Jay’ came from what my colleagues called me from way back in high school and I simply adopted it when I decided to venture into music.
Hometown
I am from Southerton in Harare
When & why did u become interested in music?
I have always been interested in music from an early age. Being involved in church and community choirs but it was in 2006 that I started taking music professionally. From then I started looking for a recording company that could sign me and in
I got into music firstly because I am passionate about it and also because it gives me the ability to communicate with many people easily.
So far what has been the proudest moment of your career?
There has been a couple of great moments in my career so far but the one that stands out above all is the most recent one where I managed to launch the release of my two new singles live on ZBC television. This is something of great value as no one has ever done something like that in the history of Zim music.
If you could collab with anyone, who would it be and why?
The first person that comes to mind when I think of collaboration right now is Chiwoniso Maraire. She is one of my personal favorites and her music always speaks to my heart. I respect her music which is completely original in its own way.
Who are your top musicians?
My local top musicians include Chiwoniso Maraire, Oliver Mutukudzi, Trevor Dee, Cindy, Shingisai Suluma and a couple more. Internationally I listen to S.A.’s songbird Lira, Neyo, Chris Brown and Michael Jackson.
You play any instruments
I play the piano but I am currently working on being a guitarist too.
Which famous musicians have you learned from
I have learned a lot from Oliver Mutukudzi in terms of being authentic. I admire Neyo’s style of songwriting so I have taken a little from him too.
What can we expect from you in 10 years?
After a decade I am seeing my music reaching millions and being worldwide force in the music industry. I am also planning to start a recording label which identifies and grooms talented individuals leading and guiding them to a position of being able to make it in their careers. In 10 years I will be established and a real force to be reckoned with.
do you perform in public describe those occasions
My first performance was at the Club Mannenberg alongside Mob-figgaz. It was a bit tense as it was my first time but the crowd was warm and we nailed it and left them wanting more.
In the second quarter of last year I performed at a glamorous event, the inaugural Miss Women’s University in Africa. At this event I shared the stage with prominent artists including Trevor Dongo and Macdee. The guys did show me a thing or two on how to perform. In August 2011 I also performed at the international showcase of dance The Jibilka Battle of the year competitions. This was a grand stage and gave me the opportunity to come out as a respected artist. It was one of the polished performances I have dished out to date.
How do handle mistake during a performance
When I am on stage I try to give my all but mistakes do happen. When this does happen I try not to show it but let it flow and act like it was part of the performance.
Do any of you get nervous during performances?
I personally get nervous every time I am about to go on stage and I think it is normal but once on stage it’s show time. As an artist I have learned to go all out when on stage and give all I can.
What advice would u give to new comers?
My advice to new comers is not to rush into something without a clear plan. First know what you intend to achieve, how you want to achieve it and then go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise but do listen to advice. Be authentic and you will be unstoppable.
How do you balance your music with other obligations?
Besides music I am also studying a degree in Accounting at the University of Zimbabwe and I am also doing CIS at the same time. The secret for me is to plan and prioritize. Working with a timetable keeps me on track.
Where do you think your largest fan?
From my research and feedback my largest fan base is in my home country Zimbabwe. Their response has been overwhelming and I know it keeps growing every minute.
What is the furthest show you have done from home?
So far all the shows I did have been near home but this year I will be touring some parts of Zimbabwe.
What has been the worst nightmare for you & how did you get through it
The time I lost my father in 2001 was one of those periods in life I would never want to experience again. It was hard for me to accept but my family and friends where there to help me through that.
If you could categorize your music, what genre would you it best fit? (Name 3)
My music is largely R&B/Soul but I do like experimenting with music so don’t be shocked to hear something different from R&B coming from me.
Without music THE WORLD would be MEANINGLESS….music is THE FOOD OF LIFE….you write because IT’S THE ESSENCE OF ME.
