Jay-J

The Olympic Summer Games of 2008 officially begin this Friday on August 8, 2008. In celebration of this international competition and cultural event, 8 of Ultra Records' artists participated in the We8 project. The We8 project was created to foster cultural and artistic exchange between musicians and artists from around the world and express the global connections embodied in the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

The 8 musicians involved with We8 are Tiesto, Kaskade, Serge Devant, Benny Benassi, Jay J, JES, Lucas Prata, and Cezar, who all hail from Ultra Records, an electronic and dance-music label based in New York City. Sponsored by Coca Cola, the We8 project was host to each artist creating a song based upon a provided theme that embodies the spirit of the Olympics. Each song is available completely gratis, as a DRM-free download and ring tone, which work with all devices. The themes were also provided to 8 featured graphic artists in China including Joyn Viscom, MeWe and Wang Xu, who designed artwork for classic style Coca Cola bottles, each artist and their design was paired with the musician who utilized the same theme.

With people from over 50 countries already having participated by downloading the graphics and tunes, We8 is an incredible success by bridging cultures and people around the world.

Q&A with?Jay-J

WE8 Theme: "Happiness"

WE8 Bottle Designer: Wang Xu, from China

WE8 Music: "Happiness," by Jay-J, from the United States

What elements of the special aluminum contour bottle design most inspired you and how did you incorporate that into your music?

I was drawn to the interesting use of shapes and thought I would try and include a few sounds that were used in different ways, to complement the design.

What was your creative process for developing the song, "Happiness"?

First, I made a list of things that came to mind when I thought about the word/concept of "happiness." This included a list of definitions and Internet search results. Then, I created some drum programming and rhythm elements to start the song?added in the musical elements Coke provided me?brought in a keyboard player

and worked with him on the interpretation of the music elements and then the creation of a way to use the melody from Coke in a way that turns it into something new. A singer and I talked about happiness as a concept. I showed him my notes and findings on the subject, as well as the bottle design. After the singer had some time to think about it, we met and wrote the lyrics to go with my version of the happiness music and

recorded them. I edited the recorded lyrics, guitar, bass, keys, and put the finishing touches in the song, like effects, sweeps, cymbals, and then mixed the final version.

How long did it take to create your song?

The creative process unfolded over the course of eight weeks.

Has any of your other music been inspired by artwork or designs?

The "San Francisco Sound" that I helped shape was definitely inspired by the cultural and environmental landscape of the San Francisco Bay area?coupled with the warm climate, laid-back lifestyle and general feeling

and style that encompasses the laid-back nature of the region and city.

What inspired you to become a musician/artist?

The simple fact that music has always been a part of my life. I?ve been driving my family crazy forever; from playing drums, guitar or sax to band rehearsals in the garage to rewiring speakers and amps. I was always

trying to satisfy my urge to make and/or learn about music.

What other cultures, if any, have inspired your music?

Since culture is basically defined as patterns of human activity and the symbolic structures that give such activities significance and importance, I guess I have to say the remnants of the disco "culture" have inspired my music.

I do feel that the disco era was a culture in and of itself. The clothing, style, rituals, dance moves and social implications all played a part in the definition of disco for those who were involved with the actual culture at the

time. What they left us were music journeys into the lives and feelings of those who created it and the pictures from album covers and photos from the times. The legendary clubs in New York City, Fantasy Studios in San

Francisco, the Philly Sound, the attitude, fashion and art of the ?70s and ?80s ? there are so many elements from that time that speak to me and that relate to house music, which is the music I love to make and play.

How do you connect with the world?

Directly. Sometimes with the help of a translator or two?.When I?m not making music, I?m playing it in nightclubs around the world. I get to spend time with fans, promoters and other interesting individuals over meals and sightseeing. I cherish these times because I get to share thoughts on everything from music to politics to

pop culture and other things of interest. I love being able to interact directly with so many diverse people and cultures around the world.

What role does music play in bringing people of different cultures together?

Music unites people of different cultures. It transcends barriers and boundaries of race, color, creed and politics. Music provides the forum for diverse individuals, regardless of background, upbringing or class, to come together and share their passion, appreciation and love for music with others.

Have you ever traveled to or performed in China?

I performed in Shanghai twice. The experience was amazing. Everyone I met was friendly, warm and extremely

hospitable. The fans were so passionate about House Music. The vibe on the dance floor was united and so

enjoyable to be around. The best part of getting to do what I do is seeing this same phenomenon occur all over

the world, in places that are so different from where I know, live or have learned about. And the shopping was

amazing, too!

What is your favorite part of the Olympic Games? Favorite Olympic event? If you were going to compete in

the Olympic Games, what sport would you like to try?

My favorite part is seeing athletes receiving their gold medals and the performances leading up to that?the way

they seem to blow past any notions of what they could or couldn?t do to reach new goals and/or break records.

My favorite sport is ice hockey. I?ll never forget being able to stay up real late to watch the Miracle on Ice, when

the U.S. Hockey Team won the gold in the ?80s.

If I had to compete? Weightlifting?.You?ve seen these ?guns?!