Get to know: Likkle Jay - From Fruity Loops to Abbey Road and Grammy Glory
- QH SOUND
- Aug 25
- 4 min read
Behind every chart-topping hit, there’s a producer shaping the sound, and Likkle Jay is one of those rare creatives turning knobs and rewriting the rules. A Grammy-nominated music producer and sound engineer from East London, she’s bringing her unique vision to the R&B scene while opening doors for underrepresented voices in music production. Her story is about talent, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries.
For Likkle Jay, music wasn’t just an escape, it was destiny. Unlike many who stumble into their creative path later in life, her passion began at the age of nine. With the guidance of her father and a copy of Fruity Loops, her world changed forever.
“I’ve been making beats since I was about 9 or 10. My dad showed me Fruity Loops (DAW), and I was hooked. It was fascinating being able to create a whole song from scratch. And at first it was just a fun hobby, but deep down I think I always knew this was what I wanted to do.”
This early spark set the foundation for what would become a lifelong commitment to music. As she grew older, what started as playful experimentation evolved into a burning ambition. When most teenagers were deciding on practical career paths, Jay’s choice was clear: music wasn’t just a dream, it was her future.
“I’d been drawn to music from such a young age that pursuing it just felt natural. When it came time to choose what to study after school, it was a no-brainer for me. I went on to do music tech at college, and that’s where I really started diving deeper into production and also got introduced to engineering.”
Every creative has a breakthrough moment, the opportunity that validates the years of hard work. For Jay, that moment came when she earned a prestigious scholarship to the Abbey Road Institute, one of the most revered names in music. This wasn’t just an academic milestone; it was a door opening to an entirely new level of her career.
“A big defining moment for me was being offered a scholarship to study at the Abbey Road Institute. That opened the door for a placement at Abbey Road Studios, where I got the chance to work on some high-profile projects and with artists I really admire. The experience and recognition I gained from that time are priceless, and it definitely shaped the path I’m on now.”
Working in the same rooms where legends once stood not only sharpened her technical expertise but also expanded her network. These experiences gave her the confidence to step into the professional world as both a producer and an engineer.
The music industry has long struggled with gender representation, particularly in technical roles like production and engineering. Likkle Jay is actively challenging this. Her mission goes beyond personal success; it’s about paving the way for others.
“I’d love to be seen as someone who inspires other young girls to get into production and engineering. Since it’s such a male-dominated space, I think representation really matters. I’ll always be championing other girls and Black creatives in this industry - it’s a big part of my journey and something I really care about.”
Likkle Jay’s presence alone sends a message: the studio isn’t just for the boys. And with every polished record she delivers, she reinforces that truth.
Every producer has a sonic fingerprint, and Jay’s is instantly recognisable. Rooted deeply in R&B, her work blends emotional depth with head-nodding grooves, marrying soft melodies with hard-hitting percussion.
“I’m really focused on R&B at the moment; it’s my favourite genre. I’d say my style is very melodic but also bass-driven, and the drums gotta hit hard.”
Likkle Jay’s studio sessions are a balance between meticulous planning and pure creative flow. She knows when to let the music breathe and when to push it in new directions. Her inspiration often comes from fresh sounds and innovative artistry.
“I’d say most of my inspiration comes from listening to new music or hearing something fresh that excites me. It sparks ideas and makes me want to create my own take on it.”
In an industry where accolades speak volumes, Likkle Jay has already achieved a milestone many dream of: a Grammy nomination. And the project that earned it? A collaboration tied to her roots as a fan.
“I’ve got to say being Grammy-nominated is definitely up there. And for it to be for a Chris Brown album makes it even more special, I grew up loving his music, so that was a full-circle moment for me.”
Dream collaborations? Jay isn’t shy about aiming high.
“Beyoncé is definitely at the top of my list. Producing a track for her would be a real ‘I made it’ moment. Definitely a huge inspiration of mine.”
For many, work-life balance means separating passion from personal time. For Jay, they’re inseparable, and she’s perfectly fine with that.
“Honestly, my personal life and music are pretty intertwined, all my friends are musicians too lol. My life is very much about music, but I wouldn’t change it for anything.”
With technical mastery, a vision for cultural representation, and a Grammy nod already in the bag, Likkle Jay is more than a producer. From shaping R&B’s future sound to creating platforms for new talent, her influence is only just beginning.
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