R&B’s latest rising star, JayDon, is no stranger to the spotlight. Formerly known as JD McCrary, JayDon has been making waves as both a child actor and singer since he was just eight years old. Known for his roles in shows and films such as KC Undercover (2015), Little (2019), alongside Marsai Martin, Tyler Perry’s The Paynes (2018), and The Lion King (2019), his impressive acting and singing abilities have set him apart over the years. Now, with a new name and a powerful vocal presence, JayDon is pushing his musical career to the forefront.
Remixd Magazine had the opportunity to speak with JayDon virtually to discuss his newest single “I’ll Be Good,” signing to Usher and L.A. Reid, and his transition from child actor to R&B singer.
Furthermore, JayDon recently hit a major milestone by signing a record deal with Mega, a new label founded by L.A. Reid and Usher in collaboration with Gamma. His talent was rediscovered by L.A. Reid’s son, Antonio Reid Jr., who introduced him to L.A. Reid himself. In November, JayDon released his debut single under his new name, “Ah! Ah!” featuring 310Babii. He followed it up with “Lullaby,” alongside Paradise, where he showcased his dynamic vocal range. This month, he returns with his latest single, “I’ll Be Good.”
“I’ll Be Good” continues to highlight the romantic side of JayDon’s artistry. The single samples Usher’s 2001 hit “How Do I Say,” from his 8701 album, and JayDon pays homage to the iconic track while adding his own modern twist.
Keep reading for the full interview.
Interview with JayDon
Remixd Magazine: You’ve been in entertainment since you were a kid. Starting with acting you’ve been in films like Little alongside Marsai Martin, Tyler Perry’s The Paynes, and The Lion King as Young Simba. How have you been able to find your balance over the years since you were a child, being at a professional level?
JayDon: It’s not really balancing it because I love it! I love entertainment! I feel lucky just to be able to be a part of all of this stuff. You know, In “Little,” Marsai Martin was dubbed the youngest executive producer ever from that movie. “Lion King,” that’s a legendary movie. It’s just dope! It’s perfect for me. I look back at it and I’m proud!
That’s incredible. That is such a loaded roster at so young! Have you gotten able to sit down and realize the impact that has with you being so young?
J: You know what? I’ll probably understand it more when I get a bit older. But I understand it as much as I can right now. It means a lot to me.
Most who are familiar with you know you as JD McCrary but you have since changed your name to JayDon. How did you know it was time for your name change? What’s the back story behind the transition?
J: It’s two reasons! One of them, can’t nobody spell my last name. They can’t say my last name. When I get off stage im like “Go follow me at @JDMcCrary.”– The second reason, is that’s my real name. JD Stands for JayDon. That’s my dad’s name and uncle’s name mixed together. My dad’s name is Jay and my uncle’s name is Don.
As previously mentioned, you’ve worked with tons of the greats in the industry. Now that you are pursuing your music, who are some artists you would love to work with in the future?
J: From the younger generation, Luh Tyler, Star Bandz, Pheonix Wonder, I really like his voice. When it comes to the legends, I want to work with Tyler the Creator & Kendrick Lamar. I want to write with them. Willow Smith. I really like her music.
You recently signed to Usher & L.A. Reid’s Mega label! Congratulations! How has the experience been so far? What is it like for you having such significant co-signs?
J: It’s crazy! I’m an Usher fan! So it’s amazing being a part of their label. Being able to call them and talk to them and ask questions, it’s a beautiful thing! I wouldn’t want to be apart of any other label. This is perfect for me. God Is great!
Speaking of Usher, you sampled his song “How Do I Say?” in your single that just dropped “I’ll Be Good.” Tell us more about the inspiration behind the single?
J: I wrote it with my dawg Sweata! He’s the dopest writer ever! Follow him at @1sweata! We just wrote the song. It’s kind of based on the tribulations I’ve been through with girls. It more of a redemption record in a way. It’s showing that I’ll be good and here for you. It’s all for the love.
Being that you are also a songwriter, how do you pull in inspiration for a recording session? What are some studio essentials you must have while recording?
J: I’ve got to have some snacks. I like honey buns, pecan twirls, and Swedish fish. You have to have water. When you write, it’s how ever you feel that day. You can’t force a feeling. thats why I work with different writers so I can catch different vibes and learn from seasoned writers. I’m still a student right now and it’s good to learn from other writers.
Being that you are only 17, what advice do you have for any of the youth who are looking to pursue a career in entertainment?
J: Always be authentic. Always be yourself and don’t try to follow any trends. Always be passionate about your creation and figure out who you are as an artist. Confidence is everything. Believe in who you are.
Speaking of confidence, were you always this confident or was this something you built over time?
J: I was always really confident about my voice and entertainment because my family does this. My dad was an entertainer and my grandparents were entertainers so that’s always been within me. I’m even more confident about my writing skills now being that I’m signed to L.A. Reid and Usher. I’ve developed myself more as an artist.
What can fans expect next from you?
J: A lot of music! I may have an EP coming next month. Stay tuned!
