Namibian born, South African (SA)-based singer and actress, Jaleesa !Gaoses, known as Taylor Jaye’s sultry sound and stylish fashion vibes are simply hard to ignore.
Not only is she catchy, but has the ability to steal one’s attention and her music video, pictures and tunes are proves of this. In her EP (extended play) titled ‘780’ Taylor brings out a new Afro-Pop sound. Priding in her own label, Jaye’s World Entertainment, and a raving a second single, a Damara Hip Hop and R&B tune called, Super Chikita, Taylor Jaye is ready to entertain, and without any philter. Timeout had an opportunity for an online interview with the sexy star who is currently SA to find out more about the music business, and her inspiration, hopes and aspirations.
If you could compare yourself to an already established artist, who would that be and why?
Perhaps I would be an esoteric amalgamation of Rihanna, Beyoncé and Nicki Minaj. In terms of their versatility, uniqueness and presence as women, they do not confine themselves to any specific genre, and also they are fearless. In my opinion they represent the strength of a woman.
Who influences you?
Artists like Wizkid, Tiwa Savage and AKA who promote African music to the world by being themselves are noteworthy influences and their impact on the industry is admirable. Globally artists like Rihanna, Alicia keys, Michael Jackson, Bob Marley have all contributed to shaping my perspective. I derive inspiration from various people across many different genres.
Who is your hero?
My mother and my late grandma are my heroines. My mom is a single parent who raised me along with my grandma to become the woman that I am today. She’s also my biggest supporter and the person who encouraged me to follow my passion for music, even though I graduated with an engineering degree.
What do you think your listeners will get out of your music?
From the various aspects of heart-touching love across the spectrum to just “feel good” uplifting party music. That’s what they can always expect from me.
Tell us about your EP?
My eight track EP titled 780 was released last year. It is available on iTunes, Spotify and many other digital download and streaming platforms. Supa Chikita and African Kings are the featured singles. The EP is intended as a preview of my versatility as an artist prior to releasing a full album later this year.
What inspired you into the music business?
My mother gave me an American mix tape when I was very young and I was then inspired to start a hip hop group. I have loved music ever since childhood and always knew that I would someday end up doing it for a living. It has always been an ever present passion.
What is the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in life?
The passing of my grandmother, Agnes “Sugo” !Gaoses, last year. She had a significant influence on my life and was the centre of our family. I was deeply moved by her departure.
What is the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in the music industry?
The most worthwhile challenge to date has been the decision to do music on my own, and the efforts to establish my own recording label Jaye’s World Entertainment after leaving my South African label. The business of music could be as demanding as any other profession from raising capital and developing strategic plans to managing operations and controlling expenditure. I have committed myself to master the skill sets required for success one step at a time.
What do you hope to do with your music?
I hope for my music to touch and move people in positive and meaningful ways. I wish for it to permeate Africa and the world. I wish for it to open up doors so that I can one day be in position to sign artists from all over the continent.
Are there any questions that you were expecting that I didn’t ask and want to answer?
Yes, I thought you would ask about my upcoming much anticipated second music video for my single “Supa Chikita” which is coming out at the end of July. I’m really excited for people to see it. I received raved reviews for my debut music video and set the bar very high. So I think my fans are excited as well to see whether I have topped my video for “African Kings” because I believe that it was one of the best music videos done by a Namibian artist.
How do followers keep up with what you are doing?
Website: www.taylorjayeworld.com
Instagram: @taylorjayeworld
Twitter: @taylorjayeworld
Facebook: facebook.com/taylorjayeworld