May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and just in time to celebrate our cultures and history, singer-songwriter Will Jay opens up about his thoughts and feelings on being biracial through his new single, “Mixed Feelings.” Having previously released his track, “I Can Only Write My Name,” back in 2019 also for AAPI Heritage Month about his Chinese background and how he felt like he lacked in being immersed in his culture with lyrics like, “I’m ashamed/And I’m the only one to blame/That I can only write my name,” Will continues this story through “Mixed Feelings” where he sings about growing up half Chinese-half White, which has caused some insecurities and generated internal questions about belonging and identity. We had the chance to have a quick chat with the multi-faceted artist where he shared some info on the “Mixed Feelings” creative process:
Arambulo Live: Over the years, we’ve listened to such a wide variety of stories from your catalogue of music, but the topic behind “Mixed Feelings” is a bit rare, yet vulnerable and refreshing. What’s the story behind the creation of the track?
Will Jay: I felt like it was time to write another song for AAPI month like I did with “I Can Only Write My Name” a few years back. This time, I thought it would be interesting to write one with a biracial spin, as I’m half Chinese and half white. I have to give credit to Sam Creighton, who co-wrote the song, for coming up with the title & concept of “Mixed Feelings”; it’s a funny experience to grow up in the middle of two worlds and not really feel like you fully belong in either.
Arambulo Live: What would you like for listeners to take away from the song after listening to it, especially for those who can relate?
Will Jay: I would love for listeners who can relate to feel seen and heard. It’s an experience I haven’t heard a lot of songs about and is definitely something a lot of us, especially in America, deal with. I always feel like that’s the first step to acceptance is to know you’re not alone and maybe our experiences are unique but the feelings are universal.
Arambulo Live: What’s your advice for the young Will Jay who had moments of insecurity about being biracial?
Will Jay: I would say to my younger self – remember that as complex as this experience is, it’s also a beautiful thing to get to experience two worlds instead of one. Home is where the heart is and doesn’t have to be totally attached to one side or the other.
Arambulo Live: Such a creative and incredible visualizer for “Mixed Feelings” – Any fun story you can share from the filming?
Will Jay: Thank you! Shout out to Caden Huston and Sam Creighton for helping me film and edit the video. It was a pretty quick filming process but I got a lot of compliments on my red jacket when we were walking around China town. Also people love to just walk in frame as if I’m not there!
“Mixed Feelings” is now available on all music streaming platforms, so be sure to add it to your playlists! Check out the wonderful visualizer down below.