Photos courtesy of Charlie Peacher

Tonight’s your first time headlining U Street Music Hall, a classic hometown venue for you. What’s that feel like?

Jay IDK: It’s crazy stressfully and crazy exciting all at once. I cant believe this day has finally come/ Ive been waiting for this every since I saw Chaz French and Goldlink perform in 2015.

You made a conscious effort when picking your opening acts for tonight, and even had fans make suggestions on your social media. Talk about these artists, as well as the scene in DC.

Jay IDK: Every artist on this bill is making a name for themselves in a different scene in the DMV. For me I just wanted unity. SO MANY people said not to do it because of the risk of violence, but I knew that because what I was doing was positive, so everyone would show nothing but love. And thats what we got! MAD LOVE!

You’ve become one of the top artists in your city in a short period of time. What do you attribute that success to?

Jay IDK: WORK ETHIC. I never gave up and I studied myself and others in order to get better. Getting better is the key to everything. People didn’t expect this level of growth from me. But the element of surprise is always the best!

Talk to us about your recently released project Empty Bank. What was your message behind it?

Jay IDK: My message was simple. I wanted to tell the truth about money. Not just the ups. Not just the downs, but everything!

How do you feel you’ve grown as an artist since releasing SubTrap back in 2015?

Jay IDK: Everyday I get closer and closer to finding my voice and who EXACTLY Jay IDK is musically. I’d say in the next 2-3month I’ll have down packed perfectly! But since subtrap I’ve gotten so much closer!

It’s safe to say you’re a perfectionist when it comes to your music. Describe to me a typical Jay IDK studio session from start to finish. Anything in particular need to be there? Rituals?

Jay IDK: NON STOP WORK. Just when you think im done, Im not. Its very serious, I dont really smoke and drink. I just focus and get things done.

What’s next for you following tonight’s headlining show?

Jay IDK: London! I cant wait! Tour and more music will also be on the way.