Born and raised in the small town of Bogalusa, Louisiana, Jaydayoungan soaked up inspiration from a long lineage of local icons—particularly guys like Lil Boosie and Kevin Gates—who channeled wizened bluesmen that just so happen to rap. But on Forever 23, the MC carves out his own lane that’s informed as much by warbly R&B and Chief Keef-style chants as by his Louisiana roots. (You don’t have to listen too close to hear hints of “Love Sosa” singsong on tracks like “Early Morning” and “Thot Thot”—and that’s a compliment.) But tape highlight “Every Chain On” is pure Southern smoke, as Jay makes violent threats sound downright relaxing.