Elujay

An independent artist whose high standing in the Bay Area underground was affirmed with the 2016 full-length Jentrify, Elujay represents Oakland with a relaxed yet stimulating mix of hip-hop and R&B inspired by the cited likes of Kendrick Lamar and Musiq Soulchild. The singer, rapper, songwriter, and producer was once engrossed in a variety of visual arts, but when graffiti was declared worthy of a felony vandalism charge, he opted to devote his creative energy to music. In 2016, Elujay established his One Time label and issued several singles, including “Soul Food” with Saba and “Flagrant” with YMTK, as well as the full-length Jentrify, titled in reference to the gentrification process affecting his hometown. Momentum continually built throughout 2017 and 2018 with the uptempo “Golden,” the funky “Streamin’” (featuring Chris McClenney), and dazed “Starchild” among the standout singles. ~ Andy Kellman