Jamiroquai’s Jay Kay on 30 Years of ‘Virtual Insanity’ & Forthcoming New Album Featuring Thundercat

In February of 1995, Jay Kay, the frontman of Jamiroquai, found himself in Sendai, Japan, questioning the absence of people on an empty street. Upon his return, Kay penned the lyrics for "Virtual Insanity," a song that would become a cultural phenomenon three decades later. The song, along with its distinctive music video directed by Jonathan Glazer, went on to achieve commercial success, topping four Billboard charts and earning Grammy and MTV Video Music Awards.

Kay reflects on the song's relevance today, noting that its depiction of humanity's reliance on technology has come true in many ways. The iconic video, featuring Kay on a moving walkway and his signature fuzzy hat, was a hit upon its release and continues to inspire fans to recreate it in various contexts, including airport people movers and even Legos.

For the 30th anniversary of "Virtual Insanity," Kay has recreated the video's moving furniture and dance moves in partnership with Beefeater 0.0%, an alcohol-free version of London Dry Gin. The new video showcases Kay sliding through different spaces while trying on various hats, symbolizing the idea that moderation can bring more out of life.

Jamiroquai is currently working on their eighth studio album, the band's first since 2017's Automaton. Kay, a perfectionist, added an extra 15% to the project and plans to collaborate with bass guitar hero Thundercat, who recently worked with the band in the studio. A lead single from the album is expected this year, with the full release anticipated for March 2027, adding to Jamiroquai's impressive discography that has already sold 26 million albums since their 1993 debut.