Rising star JayJayy is quickly becoming one of the most refreshing voices in the South African music scene. Known for her distinctive sound and creative fusion of genres, the young artist continues to carve her own lane with every release. After making her debut with the hit “Samba 8,” JayJayy is back with a brand-new single titled “Phesheya” featuring Mordecai. The track beautifully blends tribal rhythms, hip-hop energy, and three-step Amapiano elements—a sonic fusion that marks an exciting new chapter in her artistry.
We recently had an interview with JayJayy and she opened up about the inspiration behind “Phesheya,” her artistic evolution, and what fans can expect from her upcoming debut album.
1. Phesheya marks a new chapter in your journey as an artist. What inspired you to create this song, and what does it mean to you personally?
What inspired me to create this song is love. I’ve always been so intrigued by love and how far one can go for love. On my part it was more a fantasy than reality. I do hope in the future I will have a person that I can feel extremely in love with, the way I depicted love in this song.
2. You’ve described Phesheya as “holding on to what you love, even when life tests you.” Was it inspired by a real-life experience or more of a general message about love and perseverance?
It’s more a general message about love and perseverance. In the song I’m talking about loving someone, especially a stranger, someone you met randomly and have no business loving, but you choose to.
3. The single blends tribal rhythms, hip-hop influences, and three-step elements—how did you find the balance between these sounds to create something beyond amapiano?
Mordecai, the producer on the song, is the one that comes with this sound for me; it’s like a sound that makes our styles of music blend & always comes out magical because of how intentional we are.
4. You’ve worked with Mordecai on this track. How did that collaboration come about, and what unique energy did he bring to Phesheya?
He is a wonderful person to work with and eager to make a song work no matter how long it takes, the lovely part about working with him is we go back again and again to the same song till we’re both satisfied with it and we always eager to do something different or introduce something new to the ear; hence, our beautiful musical chemistry.
5. What do you want listeners to feel or take away when they first hear Phesheya?
That love is a beautiful concept, it should never feel draining, there will be a few challenges here and there definitely but if you truly choose to love someone you’ll endure through the trials & tribulations.
6. Many of your previous collaborations — with Mordecia, Shaun The Stylist, and Shakes & Les — have been rooted in amapiano. How does Phesheya showcase your evolution as an artist?
Keep growing musically, and one should always expect something different, I evolve with every song.
7. You’ve mentioned that this single is a preview of your upcoming debut album. What can fans expect in terms of sound, themes, and storytelling from the full project?
My supporters can expect a lot of storytelling, a lot of fun and a lot of good music, music that’ll stand the test of time.
8. How important is it for you to create music that reflects real-life emotions and experiences rather than just chasing trends?
It’s music that heals people. I love making music that makes people want to come back and give me their feedback whether it be how much it saved them or how much they relate to it.
9. What was the creative process like for Phesheya — from the Initial idea to the final studio version?
It’s hard to explain the creative process because whenever I’m in studio with Mordecai we just flow, we make everything a fun experience and live in whatever song we’re making, it’s like an out of body experience.
10. How would you describe your signature sound now that you’re stepping out as a solo artist beyond amapiano?
I would not limit myself to a signature sound, I’m an artist, I love making art & love the process, even through difficulty, always expect something different.
11. You’ve spoken about how the album captures the “drama and challenges of young adulthood.” What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned during these past two years that shaped your writing?
Live today, looking forward to tomorrow and not yesterday. I always make sure no matter how hard the situation is in any song I write, there’s always a happy ending because everyone deserves one.
12. As a young woman navigating the music industry, how do you stay authentic to your story and voice?
I keep in touch with my family, and I never forget where I come from.
13. The title Phesheya (meaning “overseas” or “beyond”) feels symbolic — does it represent more than just a love story? Perhaps a metaphor for reaching new heights in your career?
It is in fact a metaphor for reaching new heights, accomplishing goals, and just refusing to lose but building with your partner.
14. What message would you like to send to other emerging artists who are trying to find their own sound in a crowded music scene?
Stay true to yourself.
15. Looking ahead, what’s next for JayJayy — more collaborations, visuals for Phesheya, or maybe a tour to support your debut album?
Definitely more collaborations, more visuals, as well as a tour for my debut album, I will announce the details once finalised.
Make sure to stream “Phesheya” on digital platforms HERE.
