Superstar Kay

Interview by Lissha Sadler of Hardcore Grind

Intro: Superstar Kay developed a love for music at an early age when he was encouraged by his aunt to sing in church. Initially, music was just an interest, and fashion design was his passion. In 2001, he established Khyng-Jayden Productions, later signing producers Akitak (Memphis, TN) and Chase (Houston, TX). In 2012, Superstar Kay partnered with Fatima Carter to establish 937 Magazine, an online publication catered to independent artists. After a year, he decided to place 937 Magazine on hiatus and went back to focusing more on producing. To make himself more appealing as a producer, Superstar Kay began writing and donating his voice for hooks. In 2015, he opened his third studio, The Shadow Gallery, and added engineering to his resume.

In late 2016, he decided it was time to emerge from behind the scenes and become a recording artist. Since 2016, Superstar Kay has released two studio albums (with the latest consisting of 60 tracks), seven playlists, and eight singles. His singles “Club Lights,” “Overtime,” and “Pilots” have received a large number of plays and positive reviews. He was named “Artist of the Week” by NapRadio.com, featured in Straight Official and NUTTS Magazines, and interviewed on several internet radio shows and podcasts. He has performed throughout his hometown of Cleveland, Columbus, Pittsburgh, and Indianapolis.

Lissha Sadler: How would you describe your musical ear?

Superstar Kay: Elite. I always try to find a different avenue for delivering songs than the average person would. I put myself into each track.

LS: Where does your creativity flow? How do you avoid burning out?

SK: It flows through emotion. Whatever mood I am in, there’s always music for it. I actually don’t burn out. Creating is therapeutic for me. It’s how I release. As long as I am still breathing, there is always emotion used to express everything.

LS: What was the most defining time for you?

SK: Taking the stage in front of my mom, in my hometown. It was her first time seeing me perform, and it meant the world to me having my family and loved ones there to support me. put myself in the listeners’ shoes and think about what they want to hear. I strive to make music that anyone can relate to while avoiding being boxed in as an artist.

LS: You are a very accomplished producer and artist. You have been the music behind many popular sounds. Tell us about the concept behind your latest release, the song?

SK: With my single, Wan More Luv, I wanted to express my emotions behind love and my desire to get a person’s one hundred percent in a relationship. I gave it a reggae/island feel to add a different texture to a conversation or situation we’ve all had or desire. It adds a bounce and a different groove; I just hoped the listeners would relate to it.

LS: There’s a heavy cost to pursuing and pulling your vision together. Who is your biggest support system throughout your journey?

SK: I’m lucky enough to say that I have a lot of people in my corner rooting for me and a great team. However, I would have to say that my biggest supporter is my cousin Chaqondabeat. He’s pulled long hours with me in the studio and has been the producer behind quite a few of my tracks. He gives me honest feedback by telling me what works and what doesn’t.

has forced people to go more digital/virtual than what was initially intended, and it’s boosted a lot of sales due to people wanting an outlet and entertainment. It has also given artists a lot of time to get more work done at home while forcing more creative efforts to marketing and reaching fans. It has its benefits, but it has also put a dent in artists being able to go out and perform.

LS: You inspire so many in the music industry. How does that make you feel?

SK: It makes me feel solid. I feel honored knowing that people look at me in that way. I still see myself as a kid for the most part, and for others to look at me that way does a lot for me.

LS: If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

SK: I would delete streams altogether and force people to go back to buying discs or hard copy mediums.

LS: What advice do you have for aspiring producers and artists?

SK: Don’t stop! Music is timeless. You’re not getting too old for it. If your competition is giving one hundred percent, then you give a thousand. Keep chasing your dreams.

LS: What is next for Superstar Kay? What will your top priorities be moving forward in your career and brand?

SK: My priorities are the same: to deliver the best music possible to my listeners and fans. Next, I plan to get back on stage and deliver powerful performances with some guest features. There may or may not be an album in the works. We’ll see.