Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jazzie Jay. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jazzie, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I first knew I wanted to pursue a creative career in college while attending Buffalo State College. I knew I wanted to be immersed in the performative arts world. I enjoyed the behind the scenes work of building and producing a showcase and hosting shows. After Covid-19, I was able to tap into another musical and visual artistic talents which lead me to become Jazzie Jay aka Da Bad Guy, host my own visual art exhibitions as Junkie Art Kollection amongst a host of other business ventures and accomplishments.

Jazzie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I was introduced to music ever since I was a child I have been musically inclined expressing myself through dance and chorus. Throughout my life I tried to stay close to music being in band, choirs, small entertainment groups and organizations. I found my voice as an emcee during the pandemic which allowed me a chance to express and reflect on what kind of artistic impact I wanted to leave behind. It became clear to me that using my voice to express and create was the most powerful way I could contribute. At the same time my passion for visual arts specifically painting became extremely powerful and important to me as well, which is where I was able to introduce Junkie Art Kollection having two exhibitions and a successful Art Auction. I have been able to perform across New York State, I have been featured in two short films, and a fashion show. I have been fortunate to network with so many talented underground artists and musicians that it has really changed the course of my career and the trajectory of how and where my career is headed.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

we have to create more safe open and accessible spaces that protect and promote equitable resources for creatives alike to learn and obtain. as a society it’s not enough places for all creative to be productive and share resources. especially in buffalo unfortunately it’s a lot of secretive communities and if you know then you know type of environment so a lot of people are not aware of the events that happen in the underground world.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is that it’s such an expressive experience, a relieving feeling to be able to see your thoughts come into reality. there is nothing more beautiful than seeing people be inspired by your story and experience. in my journey i have been blessed to meet so many amazing people and they have made me feel so much love just from their perspective of my art.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @dabaddestguy
• Youtube: Jazzie Jay aka Da Bad Guy
• Other: @junkieartkollection Art instagram @jazziejunkyard Fashion Blog Instagram

Image Credits
@earthtohooly – hooly/distant memory @cashbandiicoot – gio/eunoiabygem @nickmass – nick mass @wassuposhea – oshea parks @rainbowflicks – mwhphotos @flimedbybritt – brittany