Y, a Brooklyn-born artist, has always drawn inspiration from the rich legacy of East Coast hip-hop. With musical influences that range from Jay-Z to Kendrick Lamar, and Childish Gambino to Drake, Y’s sound is a unique blend of lyrical storytelling and deep house beats. Imagine the raw energy of graffiti art set against the pulsating nightlife of Ibiza, and you’ll get a sense of the sonic world Y creates.
Y’s creative process is rooted in spontaneity and emotional authenticity. He often starts his journey by listening to beats from his producers or online, letting the mood of the day guide the direction of his music. Whether it’s aggressive, reflective, or upbeat, Y writes in one sitting, preferring to capture the raw, organic flow that emerges in the moment.
One of Y’s core messages is rooted in love, mental health, and gratitude. His latest project, SoNY 2 (So New York 2), is a deeply personal exploration of his passions—combining music with his love for gaming. Inspired by classic PlayStation titles like NBA Street Vol. 2 and Def Jam Fight for New York, this project is an homage to his childhood, his city, and the duality of his experiences as a gamer and a rapper. “SoNY 2” is not just an album—it’s a bold, creative declaration from a New York artist on his own terms.
Collaboration is also central to Y’s journey. He has worked with UK artist Courtney Bennett, merging New York’s gritty vibe with UK garage beats, creating a sound that crosses borders and genres. As Y continues to grow, his curiosity and constant learning fuel his artistry. “I started making music in 2015,” Y reflects, “and every year I’ve grown. Music is my calling.”
Y balances his personal life and music career with grace, supported by a network of friends and family. He finds a grounding in the people around him, giving him the strength to be vulnerable and authentic in his work. One of his latest singles, Attack The Attic, is an introspective deep house track that explores his battle with anxiety and mental health, turning inner struggles into art.
For Y, authenticity means staying true to his voice and creative impulses, not emulating other artists but creating music that feels uniquely his. His dream? A world tour—not necessarily playing arenas, but connecting with international audiences in an intimate setting, sharing his music and message. His hope for listeners is simple: that they feel empowered to be themselves and understand that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Check out Y’s new single: “Attack The Attic”
Follow him on Instagram @yhj.94music
Music Link: SoNY 2 on Spotify
