PREMIERE: J. Eka - Do U Mind? (Single) + 10 Questions

 

J. Eka’s ‘Do U Mind?’: A Love Letter to Y2K Romance and South East London Realness.

If you’ve been tracking South East London’s underground music scene, you’ll know that J. Eka doesn’t miss. Now, he’s back with Do U Mind? — a warm, wistful single that feels like flipping through an old MSN chat log while the sun sets outside your estate window.

Produced by ETRNL (the name behind tracks like Talk Less, Gone and Does He Know?), the track draws on early 2000s culture, blending J. Eka’s signature laid-back delivery with sentimental sound design. Think Y2K-style samples, clean-cut UK drums, and a lyrical energy that dances between clever punchlines and quiet vulnerability.

There’s a subtle summer breeze running through this one — not the loud, sun-drenched kind, but the soft, twilight version. Do U Mind? conjures images of Morley’s after dark, bus rides with the windows open, and the kind of teenage love built on phone calls, not DMs. It’s mixtape-era intimacy with a 2025 sensibility.

But make no mistake — this isn’t just nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. Eka’s strength lies in his ability to reflect without getting stuck in the past. His lyrics are sharp, personal, and refreshingly honest, making Do U Mind? not just a throwback, but a conversation about romance and presence in the digital age.

This release follows his standout single Waterfall, which saw praise from platforms like GUAP, Capital Xtra, and Fame Magazine — and continues J. Eka’s run of culture-driven releases that push beyond genre. As always, he moves fluidly between rap and melodic R&B, stitching together stories that reflect not just where he’s from, but where he’s headed.

And let’s not forget: J. Eka isn’t just making waves in music. His work with stylist and partner Lala Roswess keeps him rooted in London’s style and fashion world — a true multidisciplinary creative moving with intention across both sound and visual storytelling.

If you’re craving music that feels like a memory but speaks to right now, Do U Mind? is your cue to tap in.

J. Eka will be performing his first live headline show @ Hoxton Colours on Friday 11th of July. Get on the guest list is here.

J. Eka sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

Honestly, I feel like it’s always been in my DNA. My dad was a music journalist, so growing up the house was full of sound—mainly R&B and hip-hop. I was a bookworm as a kid, always reading, then writing stories, which eventually turned into poetry. That creative energy fused with my love for music later down the line—and rapping just became the natural outlet.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Kendrick Lamar is a huge one—for his depth and storytelling. Kanye, especially for his production. Lately I’ve been vibing with Leon Thomas too. On the UK side, someone like Chip—he’s a legend and sharp with it—would be mad to collaborate with.

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

Can’t give away too much yet… but I’m definitely building toward a body of work. Some things you can’t rush—just know I’ve been locked in, creating a catalogue that really represents my best and most creative self. The vision’s becoming clearer with each drop.

4. How would you describe your sound?

It’s layered. The foundation is rap and hip-hop, but there’s R&B influence in there, even grime elements too—it depends on the story I’m telling. I’d say it’s mood-driven but still lyrically sharp. A mix of softness and edge.

5. What’s your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Probably my rebrand over the past year. Reinventing myself—visually, sonically, all of it—and making sure the branding reflects who I really am. Being respected in both music and fashion circles has helped get the message across too. It’s not easy balancing both, but I’m proud of how far it’s come. There’s more coming I can’t talk about yet, but you’ll see.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Stay true to yourself—fully. This game’s oversaturated and full of imitation, so leaning into your own individuality is key. Everyone’s got something unique in them… that’s what cuts through. And consistency. Still applying that lesson myself, to be honest.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

Yeah—Pozer’s cold. He’s doing his thing in UK rap. On the R&B side, definitely check out Kwn, Jozzy, Sasha Keable, and Elmiene.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Leon Thomas’ Mutt deluxe project. Been rinsing that one lately—it’s soulful, cinematic, and just mad well put together. Also Wale’s The Gifted album. Makes me think of summer 2013, had the perfect blend of rap & R&B influence in that album too.

9. What do you like to do when you’re not making music?

I’m a big sci-fi fan, so I’m usually watching something in that world. Also got a soft spot for reality TV—it’s chaotic but hilarious. I still read a fair bit too. And fashion’s a big part of my life—I’m at London Fashion Week and industry events regularly.

10. Name three things you can’t live without when in the studio?

My phone to write (or pen and paper if it’s dead), a bottle of water, and snacks. Gotta stay hydrated and fuelled—it’s a long game in there.