Meet Ejaye | Prince Of The South Bay
We had the good fortune of connecting with Ejaye and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ejaye, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Gardena, California at Gardena Memorial Hospital and spent most of my life in Hawthorne, a South Bay city located between Torrance and Inglewood. Growing up in this diverse area, I was exposed to two different cultures. On one side, my family hailed from the South, specifically Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana. My mom, the youngest of 17 kids, allowed me to experience life with older family members. My grandma lived on 52nd and Main, while my grandpa resided on 108th and Central. The Andrews family was well-known throughout LA, which meant I had a reputation to uphold.
On my dad’s side, I come from first-generation Asian immigrants who initially settled in Inglewood and later moved to Carson. This part of my family taught me valuable lessons about loyalty and the true meaning of freedom. Despite these cultural differences, my upbringing was in low-income housing, and I bounced around from school to school. I managed to graduate at 16 after a stint in job corps in Utah, even though I was eventually kicked out. It was during these formative years that I discovered my love for music.
My musical influences are a mix of oldies like Otis Redding, Blue Magic, The Crusaders, Lonnie Liston Smith, Roy Ayers, Kool & The Gang, and Little Beaver, thanks to my uncles and aunties. But I also have a deep appreciation for 90s tracks from artists like iSmooth7, King Tee, The Twinz, Warren G, Kausion, Domino, Masta Ace, Mr.X, Above The Law, McBreed, HI-C, Mausberg, Timebomb, and Knocturnal. These artists encapsulated the West Coast vibes that I grew up around.
Hawthorne, my hometown, was incredibly diverse, housing various cliques and groups ranging from taggers, weed smokers, punk rockers, drunks, anime enthusiasts, jocks, skateboarders, hustlers, jerkers, and baby gangsters. This eclectic mix heavily influenced my clothing and music preferences, making my style and taste diverse. The era of Odd Future, especially during the Dirty days, played a significant role in shaping who I am today.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My artistic journey is a reflection of my diverse upbringing and the eclectic influences that have shaped me. What sets me apart is the fusion of my cultural background and life experiences, which are embedded in every aspect of my art. I’m proud of how I’ve managed to blend my Southern heritage, Asian immigrant roots, and West Coast upbringing into a unique and authentic expression of creativity.
Getting to where I am today professionally hasn’t been an easy path. I faced numerous challenges, including financial hardships, bouncing between schools and living situations, and finding my own identity amidst different cultural expectations. These challenges taught me the importance of resilience, self-belief, and hard work. I overcame them by staying true to my vision, seeking inspiration from both my surroundings and the music that spoke to my soul.
One of the key lessons I’ve learned along the way is the value of authenticity. Embracing my individuality and creating art that’s true to who I am has resonated with others and allowed me to connect on a deeper level. Another lesson is the significance of community and collaboration. Engaging with fellow artists, mentors, and even my local environment has enriched my perspective and fueled my growth.
I want the world to know that my art is a reflection of my journey and the myriad of influences that have shaped me. It’s a celebration of diversity, resilience, and the power of pursuing one’s passion against all odds. My brand and story are a testament to the idea that our backgrounds and experiences can be our greatest sources of creativity and strength.
In essence, my art is a bridge between cultures, a canvas for my experiences, and a tribute to the lessons life has taught me. It’s a reminder that no matter where we come from, our stories have the power to inspire and connect us all.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Here’s My week-long itinerary filled with exciting places, delicious eats, and memorable experiences:
**Day 1: Beach City Vibes**
– Start with breakfast at Uncle Bill’s Pancake House in Manhattan Beach.
– Spend the day at Hermosa Beach, enjoying the sun, sand, and maybe even some beach volleyball.
– Head to the Strand for a scenic walk or bike ride along the coastline.
– In the evening, dine at FishBar in Manhattan Beach, known for its seafood and oceanfront views.
**Day 2: Palos Verdes Exploration**
– Drive to the Palos Verdes Peninsula for breathtaking views and hiking trails.
– Have lunch at Nelson’s at Terranea Resort, overlooking the ocean.
– Explore the Point Vicente Lighthouse and the nearby Abalone Cove Shoreline Park.
– Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local wine bar like The Whale & Ale in San Pedro.
**Day 3: Torrance Delights**
– Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Original Pancake House in Torrance.
– Visit the Torrance Antique Street Faire for unique finds.
– Have lunch at King Mediterrano, a hidden gem serving Mediterranean cuisine.
– Spend the afternoon at Wilson Park or the Madrona Marsh Nature Center.
– In the evening, check out a live performance at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center.
**Day 4: Inland Adventures**
– Begin with breakfast at Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles in Inglewood.
– Head to The Forum for a concert or sports event.
– Explore the California Science Center and see the Space Shuttle Endeavour.
– Enjoy dinner at Randy’s Donuts, an iconic L.A. landmark.
**Day 5: Beach and Harbor Experience**
– Start with a beachfront breakfast at Ruby’s Diner in Redondo Beach.
– Rent bikes and ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.
– Have lunch at the Redondo Beach Pier and explore its shops.
– Take a harbor cruise from Redondo Beach Marina or San Pedro Harbor.
– Dine at Captain Kidd’s Fish Market & Restaurant for fresh seafood.
**Day 6: Cultural Immersion**
– Begin with breakfast at Centinela Feed & Pet Supplies in Lomita.
– Visit the Museum of African American Art in Baldwin Hills.
– Explore Leimert Park Village, known for its art, music, and culture.
– Have dinner at Harold & Belle’s in Jefferson Park for Cajun and Creole cuisine.
**Day 7: Relax and Reflect**
– Spend a leisurely morning at Del Aire Park, enjoying the serene surroundings.
– Head to Torrance Bakery for pastries and treats to go.
– Wrap up the trip with a beach picnic at El Segundo Beach, reminiscing about the amazing week.
Throughout the itinerary, I’d make sure to highlight the vibrant diversity, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty that the South Bay area has to offer. It’s a perfect blend of beach vibes, outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and delectable cuisine, ensuring that my best friend gets the ultimate South Bay experience!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, my family, both on my mom’s side with their strong Southern roots and my dad’s side, which instilled in me the values of loyalty and freedom. Their influence and support have been instrumental in who I’ve become.
When it comes to books that have inspired and educated me, I have to mention “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill. This book opened my mind to the power of mindset, persistence, and the importance of setting clear goals. The wisdom it imparts has guided me through challenges and opportunities alike.
Additionally, the legends around me have been vital in my growth. Living at the New Jaccs apartments on 67th and 10th Ave introduced me to a diverse range of perspectives, further enriching my understanding of the world. Attending Horace Mann and then being sent to Audubon exposed me to different environments, teaching me adaptability and resilience.
Seeing Nipsey Hussle handle his business and achieve greatness right before my eyes was immensely inspiring. His dedication to his community and his entrepreneurial spirit showed me that it’s possible to rise above adversity and create a lasting impact.
Of course, my own life experiences have been my greatest teacher. From my time in low-income housing to my journey through various schools and foster care, every hurdle and triumph has contributed to my growth and perspective. These experiences have taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of staying true to myself.
In essence, my journey has been shaped by a multitude of influences, from family and mentors to books and experiences. Each piece of this intricate puzzle has contributed to my story and my success.
Instagram: https://instagram.com/richoffrosecrans
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ejayebeenajoint
Facebook: Facebook.com/Ej.swaqq
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@RICHOFFROSECRANS
Image Credits
RICHOFFROSECRANS LLC @Richoffrosecrans DOUBLE R MEDIA @Doublermediatv DOUBLE R CLOTHING USA @Doublerclothingusa
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