Kay Young

Photo by Lily Brown

It’s not a secret that many creative people struggle with feeling validation, especially as we search for it externally. But what if that feeling could come about internally? No, I don’t mean some typical self-help nonsense, I mean what if the art we created was wholly reflective of our intimate thoughts, and the ability to do that brought about the validation we’re always seeking? This is what London rapper/singer/producer Kay Young has experienced with the music she’s released throughout the pandemic. 

Kay’s music is equally fun and revealing, with constant pivots that are clever and inventive. Lyrically, her music reminded me of the important role that family, friends, and even fear plays in our everyday lives. All of this personal exploration lead to Jay Electronica and Jay Z discovering Kay and signing her to Roc Nation; not bad for a girl from South London who didn’t know where her career was going. That’s a major aspect of our conversation, how even with Kay’s strong sense of self, it was a long road to arrive at that point, and like many of us; the road was plagued with constant doubt. This is one of the most inspirational talks I’ve had this season and I’m really keen for you to hear it.

After you hear the episode, be sure to check out Kay Young’s track White Teeth on the official New Exchange Playlist. Also, follow Kay Young on Spotify, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.