Getting To Know: J.Eka

Today, we're diving into the latest from rising UK music star J. Eka as he drops his highly anticipated new single, “Gone,” featuring the soulful vocals of Jay Wilcox. Set to release on October 9th, “Gone” marks a reflective shift in J. Eka's career, blending his sharp, thought-provoking flows with Wilcox's emotive delivery. The track explores themes of ambition and vulnerability, pushing the idea of moving at your own pace in a world that often demands otherwise. Paired with a simple yet impactful visualiser, this release is set to resonate deeply with fans and new listeners alike.

1. "Gone" delves into themes of ambition, vulnerability, and staying true to oneself. What personal experiences inspired you to explore these topics in your new single?

A lot of things, especially when changing my artist name, I knew it was about embracing my true self and my life’s experiences; that’s what makes me and my topic matter different. 

I’d lost a lot of friendships this past year, and seen people’s true colours. It made me realise that life has a lot of moving parts, and seeking consistency can only come from within, not externally.

2. Your collaboration with Jay Wilcox brings a soulful element to the track. How did this partnership come about, and what was the creative process like working together?

It was cool man, we’ve known each other and performed together for years, so finally releasing a song together was long overdue.   

I played him the track in the studio with my verses, then he sort of freestyled a chorus idea. A couple of weeks later he sent me a final version of what he’d done and I loved it!

3. You’ve been praised for pushing boundaries and blending genres in your music. How do you approach finding the balance between rap, hip-hop, and other influences to create your unique sound?

I just think about what makes me feel something. What gives me chills, what inspires me, what gets me excited. Thinking within a box of genres often limits the art before it’s even made. I try to think outside of that box as much as possible.

4. The visualiser for "Gone" keeps things minimal yet impactful. What message were you trying to convey with this visual style, and how does it enhance the song’s themes?

When we created the song, it immediately felt like a night drive sort of track, so we wanted the video to reflect that without taking attention away from the lyrics. On my night drives, a lot of the introspective thoughts expressed in the track often come to mind for me, so it all felt right. 

5. As an artist who’s evolved since your debut in 2012, what has been the biggest shift in your music or mindset, and how do you see your sound progressing in the future?

That everything happens on God’s timing and in the way he intends it to happen. All I can do is work hard with the gift I have, and trust that everything will align. I want my sound to inspire, beyond genres or categories, I want to make an impact… make people feel something.