The Fairy Princess was having some issues about Ni’ihau – so many issues it was a subscription.
TFP is kinda tired of her face looking like this:
She is exhausted by the stupidity – the continued, ongoing stupidity of the Whitewashing issue, the cultural appropriation of it all – it’s MADDENING!
However one bright light shone in the darkness, and pulled TFP from the depths of despair.
That was discovering the new video of the song by Will Jay called LEADING MAN.
Take a look and a listen:
TFP thought it was joyful and cheeky. She also thought that being only 20, Will Jay has time and talent on his side – he seems like he is in the fight for the long haul. As he prepares to light the world on fire, TFP thought she would ask him a few questions for your enjoyment.
So sit back and relax and enjoy five minutes with Will Jay.
TFP: Will, thanks so much for talking with me. I have a few questions – first, let’s just get this on the table, you are adorable, I am a fan. Let’s dive right in – What is the last movie you saw in the theaters and when and what inspired you to write a song that takes on White washing so pointedly?
WJ: The last movie I actually saw in the theaters was GET OUT! That movie was a huge inspiration for me to actually put this song out and not care if it ruffles some feathers. I’m not sure if it was one event in particular that inspired me to write LEADING MAN.
I wanted to write an anthem for myself as an Asian/American trying to make it in show business because it was something I needed to hear. Seeing all those movies last year getting criticized for whitewashing made me realize that there’s a power in this community. I wanted to do something that would bring us together and at least start a conversation.
TFP: When you hear that Emma Stone or Tilda Swinton or Matt Damon defending Whitewashing – what does that say to you as an Artist and as an Asian American?
WJ: It’s all just more fuel to the fire. I’m so excited for Leading Man & my future releases because I’ve found a way to combine the Asian-American experience with an artist’s sound & perspective. With my music, I still want to relatable to a wide audience but on a deeper level explore what it means to be Asian-American & not Asian-Asian like Hollywood portrays us.
TFP: What is the one thing you want people to take away with them from your song?
WJ: The main thing I want people to take away from this song would be confidence. Although I’m making a pretty bold statement, I hope everyone after watching that video finds confidence to be unapologetically who they are & not who they think people want them to be.
TFP: Why is now the time to release this song? Obviously, May is Asian American Pacific Islander Celebration Month, but why now?
WJ: I think now, more than ever, I’m seeing Asian/Americans coming together and speaking out about these issues. For the first time in my life, I feel a real sense of movement being formed, and as a musician I want to be a part of that.
TFP: Who are your inspirations? Whose career do you admire?
WJ: I’ve been telling people that my music is Frank Sinatra meets Frank Ocean. I’m also very inspired by Elton John, The Beatles, and Bruno Mars. In terms of career, I would say Justin Timberlake; he’s killed it – not only in singing and dancing, but in acting as well. Sara Bareilles, I’ve been a fan of hers for years – I was amazed by WAITRESS, the musical she wrote. I just want to be able to explore all facets of being an entertainer.
TFP: I have to ask, because I cover a lot of theater – do you have any hopes towards Broadway, or are you strictly pop music?
WJ: I’m definitely focused right now on my own music; but I grew up doing musical theater, so if an opportunity presented itself I would be ecstatic. My dream musical would be JERSEY BOYS. I would also like to try my hand at writing for TV and film.
TFP: What is the easiest way for people to get hold of your music?
WJ: You can go to willjaymusic.com – it is also on iTunes, Apple music, Spotify – I’ve got a lot of new music in the works, so look for that!
TFP: Where do you see yourself in five years?
WJ: In five years, I’ll have made at least 3 albums. I would love to have toured and played awesome venues all over the country and hopefully the world, as well as be inspired by as many people as possible. The one thing for sure is I’ll always be creating and telling stories with my songs.
TFP: I’m sure you will get there. Congrats on the song, it is super fun, and it means a lot to me personally that you invested your time and talent to highlight this issue. I wish you much success.
TFP out.
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