ЧAYU Represents a Simple Life

ЧAYU is a multi-instrumentalist and a knowledgeable producer who has taken his style of music of crafting together reggae, jazz, and hip hop, into what has become his EP "Ribbon Faced". It's a fusion of that is very chill, takes a deep trance with a heavy bass. Each song composed with a unique flavor and texture that becomes intriguing to your ear, regardless of what music you may partake in the most. ЧAYU discusses said EP and some insight into himself as an artist and musician.


1. Please tell us, why did you want to get into music in the first place.

I got into music during a battle with concussions from playing hockey as a way to try to understand myself and deal with my emotions. From the instant I hit a key on the piano after a particularly heavy day my junior year of high school, things just started to make sense to me.

2. What’s the origin of your name, what does this mean and represent for you as an artist.

My name originates from my native Russian tongue, meaning tea. It represents a simple life. The tradition behind tea is to relax, sit back, and let the trivialities of life gloss over. I am fortunate to have found the things, simple things, within myself and in my life that bring me joy, and it is in doing these things that makes me feel successful.

3. Where are you based and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local artists/bands you could recommend?

I am based in New Brunswick, NJ. The music scene here is heavily influenced with punk rock, hip-hop, folk, and alternative music. The electronica scene is small, but there's some very cool things going on. I am surrounded by other musicians who influence and inspire me to keep moving my sound forward. Some of these would be John Colaiacavo from JohnnyCola, Derrick Braxton of Red Giant, and my friend Tom Leitner.

4. How would your describe your style?

I would describe my style as personal. All of my music is but a small form of self expression, passing thoughts. It encompasses an eclectic blend of elements from reggae, jazz, funk, hip-hop, and electronica.  also somewhat mimics diversity of the town in which I currently live, in it's accumulation of music, art, attitude, and ethnicity.

5. What can be said about your EP, “Ribbon Faced" that has not already been said before.

One thing I can share about "Ribbon Faced" is the vocal sample at the end of the album, in Flamingo Feet. It is one of "Ski Boss" Tanner Hall talking to one of the current best in the world from Sweden, Henrik Harlaut, during the Dew Tour. I love skiing and both of them have really technical style and send it so big.. Seem like good guys, eh?

6. What can one expect when listening to this EP, “Ribbon Faced"?

When listening to "Ribbon Faced" one could expect an overall dark, psychedelic tone.

7. How about playing shows and touring, have anything worked out?

Shows are a nice experience, jamming out on speakers that aren't my monitors or headphones with new people tends to lead to a good time. From DIY basements to block parties to concerts I feel like I can find a way to resonate with most crowds, so you can say it works out. I have never organized a formal tour but I do play shows in the tri state area and occasionally southern California.

8. What other plans do you have for the future?

In the future, I plan to create more music, be free, and learn as much as I can from life.

9. Where can we listen to your music and where can we buy your stuff?

My music is available at soundcloud.com/chayumusic and my merch is currently being restocked and updates will be on my my instagram page @chayu_music.

10. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?

I would like my listeners to remember that they always have a choice. A choice to make this world a place of love, and content with enough. Listen and let be.