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CLAY'BAMA: FOUR YEARS LATER
Written & Interviewed By: Jewels Alexandria
(4 Minute Read)
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Fall of 2019, when The Juke Joint first went from a thought to a reality, one of our first featured guest was Cleveland MC, Clay’Bama. The article titled, Meet Clay’Bama, addressed some of our inspiration behind starting the magazine, his determination to follow his dreams and wanting to pass that drive along to his children. Four years later, The Juke Joint had the opportunity to catch up with the Dayton native to discuss accomplishments, new endeavors and dive into his latest project, The Layover -EP.
In the four years that has passed, Clay has move from Atlanta, Tennessee to North Carolina where he currently resides to be closer to his daughter. He has also picked up guitar, gotten more into production and engineering and has become, “more free. Enhance the vibe if I may say. I’m trying to step myself up as an all-around creator." Which brings us to, The Layover -EP, released in December of 2023.
“I had my hands in the engineering process.” Three years ago, Clay’Bama released Up Up Away, a project I took a strong liking to. So, hearing about his new project, The Layover -EP, from a fan standpoint, I truly was excited. “It's still a lyrical project, but the sound is different.” And the sound is different for sure. Where his older works have a very Hip Hop feel, The Layover has a smoother approach. I feel this shows his range of music and his ability to not become complacent in his own comfort. He has the courage to try new things and explore beyond the horizon. The recipe for a beautifully blended mix of character. This short and sweet EP truly is a late evening drive through the city. Songs like Forgot, Interlude and 1 Door set a tone to relax your mind. But he wants you to know he's still working hard, just perfecting his craft.
Clay’Bama is not afraid to work with the likes of his peers. He partnered with the black own liquor brand, Rayon XO cognac. I had the pleasure of trying the liquor when I ran into Clay at a festival the summer of 2023. “They supporting me so I’m supporting them.” It is a 10–15-year aged cognac straight from France. If you have a taste for brown liquors, check out Rayon XO. A strong but smooth cognac that leaves the taste buds dancing. Paired lovely with a smooth cigar.
Band4Band, tell me about this.
“Jay Z had Rockafella, Drake OVO, Kendrick TDE, everyone has their brand, this is mine. I stand for a one band one sound, we’re working together.” He says this is the kind of energy he wants to carry. He wants to be more than a Clay brand. He talks of unity. Moving to North Carolina did not change his perspective on Cleveland. And believes how well one works with others truly depends upon the individual. Clay’Bama’s personality is genuine. I believe anyone that meets him will receive this right away.
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So four years later, Clay'bama is the same but different. In the most beautiful way. He displays growth, maturity and most of all, moves with love.
June 9, 2024