Jay 305
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OPM's Jay 305 is the newest signee to Interscope Records. The 27-year-old West Coast MC started buzzing last year when Dom Kenndy released Young Nation Vol. 1, a compilation mixtape featuring artists from his label, Other People's Money. On Young Nation Vol. 1, 305's record “Youzza Flip” caught fire and was later remixed by Juicy J, Wiz Khalifa and YG courtesy of the LA Leakers. XXL recently caught up with Jay 305 while in New York City who said that he's excited for what the future holds now that he's signed to Interscope. "Feelings is great," said 305. "I’m finna take over. I really do feel that way. I only got two songs out here. I know I'm going to make it bigger that what it is. It’s a certain type of feeling; good and bad because you don’t know what’s going to happen on the bad side but I just pray for the best."

Ray Alba, publicist at Interscope Records adds, "He’s got a different perspective. He’s older and wiser than a lot of young cats and been through some shit. His perspective and his story is going to be what's refreshing in West Coast hip-hop."

This year saw a huge resurgence of young West Coast talents, with debut albums from the likes of ScHoolboy Q and YG and major statements from Ty Dolla $ign, Vince Staples and Cozz. Jay 305’s manager and OPM Executive, Archie Davis, saw potential in Jay that distinguishes him from other West Coast MCs. "He’s been studying this shit for a while," said Davis. "He just started rapping three years ago. So you can imagine someone with 27 years of just studying, plus watching Dom [Kennedy] firsthand. For him to finally get his shot. You hear his struggle."

Jay credits his growth to his life experiences and his ability to articulate his story on wax. "I’m not a young nigga," he explained to XXL. "I’m new but my life experiences is something young MCs haven’t lived through or been through. I know how to put my story together in rhythm. I'm here for the real ones."

Peep Jay 305's latest single "Taking All Bets" below.

Related: DJ Mustard, Jay 305 And Tee Cee Ride Smooth Through LA In “Ghetto Tales” Video

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