Jay Deru has been writing for as long as he can remember. Starting with poetry in the third grade, his creative path eventually led him through choir and into rap during high school. After graduating, Deru began recording in professional studios, giving him the opportunity to develop his sound and pursue music on a larger scale. Along the way, he has steadily built a following through performances at open mics in cities across the country.
That progression comes through clearly on Skyscrapers, Deru’s latest album. A soulful and cohesive collection, the record balances warmth and groove with a lyrical approach that feels both assured and personal. Its production is bright and inviting without overwhelming the vocals, leaving plenty of room for Deru’s poised delivery and effortless flow to take center stage.
Deru has described his attention-grabbing voice and natural flow as two of his defining qualities, and Skyscrapers gives both characteristics plenty of space to shine. Rather than relying on excessive production or dramatic shifts, the album finds its identity in subtle, warm textures, infectious, grounded rhythms and Deru’s ability to move comfortably between confidence and introspection.
The opening track, “Cashout humor,” immediately establishes that atmosphere. Silky strings, airy percussion and rich bass create a smooth, engaging backdrop as Deru delivers poetic verses with a relaxed sense of control. It is an inviting introduction to the album, setting up the warm sonic palette and lyrical focus that continue throughout.
“Texas Hold Em” keeps that momentum going with balmy guitar tones and a potent rhythm section that settles naturally beneath Deru’s vocals. There is a noticeable sense of clarity in his performance here, with the rapper reflecting on personal development and self-growth without losing the easygoing quality that defines the track.
On “Hit Me Back,” Deru expands the album’s dynamics through melodic flourishes and immersive production. The track adds another layer to the record’s sound while maintaining its cohesive feel, allowing Deru to continue exploring the space between melody, rhythm and rap.
The album closes with “Hurt Nobody,” one of its standout moments. Over infectious, dexterous bass lines and watery, open keyboards, Deru delivers detailed and personal verses that bring the record’s introspective side into sharper focus. The production remains smooth and spacious, but the writing gives the song an emotional weight that makes it a strong conclusion.
Skyscrapers feels like a natural reflection of Jay Deru’s development as an artist. His journey from childhood poetry to choir, high-school rap and years of live performance has shaped an approach that values both lyrical expression and instinctive delivery. Across the album, he sounds comfortable in his own voice—confident without becoming overstated, reflective without losing momentum.
With its soulful production, irich grooves and thoughtful writing, Skyscrapers presents Jay Deru as an artist continuing to refine his sound while staying rooted in the qualities that have defined his career. It is a warm, focused album that rewards attention, offering a clear sense of who Deru is and where his music is headed next.
Listen to Skyscrapers here:
Connect with Jay Deru HERE.
ROUNDHOUSE MUSIC 