Jay Taj, a 33-year-old rapper from Santa Ana, has emerged as a promising talent in the hip-hop scene. Despite not growing up immersed in hip-hop music, he discovered his passion for the genre during his teenage years and quickly excelled. Recently, Taj competed on Netflix’s “Rhythm and Flow,” where he showcased his skills alongside over 30 other rappers, mentored by industry giants like DJ Khaled, Ludacris, and Latto. He secured second place in the competition and has since released a new EP titled "Little Jerry Demos." Taj's unique background, shaped by his upbringing and diverse musical influences, sets him apart as an artist committed to pushing boundaries and representing his city with pride.
Taj's journey reflects both personal growth and artistic evolution. Born and raised in Santa Ana by his maternal grandparents, his early exposure to jazz, blues, and gospel influenced his musical foundation. However, it was the accessibility of rap that drew him into hip-hop, leading him to discover his natural talent. Competing on Netflix's platform was a pivotal moment, exposing him to global audiences and opening doors for future opportunities. His latest project, "Little Jerry Demos," encapsulates various facets of his identity and showcases his versatility as an artist.
From Diverse Influences to Discovering Hip-Hop
Jay Taj's musical journey began in an unconventional setting. Raised by his maternal grandparents in Santa Ana, he was exposed to genres like jazz, blues, and gospel, which were not typically associated with hip-hop. This unique blend of sounds laid the groundwork for his eclectic style. While many of his peers were immersed in hip-hop culture, Taj's early musical environment was quite different. However, the prevalence of hip-hop in his neighborhood eventually led him to explore the genre more deeply.
As he grew older, Taj found himself naturally drawn to hip-hop, inspired by iconic albums such as Dr. Dre's "The Chronic" and Nelly's "Country Grammar." The accessibility of rap as a form of expression resonated with him, especially compared to other instruments. At just 13, he began recording in his uncles' studio and soon performed at local venues. His talent blossomed through high school talent shows and battle of the bands competitions. Taj describes his art as malleable and ever-growing, always evolving alongside his personal experiences. This adaptability has allowed him to tell compelling stories through his music, each song tied to a specific narrative or experience.
Competing on Netflix and Beyond
Jay Taj's participation in Netflix's “Rhythm and Flow” marked a significant milestone in his career. Initially uncertain about his chances, given his age and racially ambiguous appearance, Taj submitted audition videos that caught the attention of the show's producers. Competing against over 30 rappers, he faced critique and mentorship from hip-hop legends like DJ Khaled, Ludacris, and Latto. Despite the nerves leading up to performances, Taj found comfort on stage, describing it as his home. His ability to connect with the audience and deliver authentic performances earned him second place in the competition.
The experience on “Rhythm and Flow” provided Taj with invaluable exposure and opened doors for future opportunities. Shortly after the show's release, he dropped his six-track EP, "Little Jerry Demos," inspired by his childhood nickname. This project represents a journey through various versions of himself, demonstrating his versatility as an artist. One of the most rewarding aspects for Taj was making his grandmother proud. After losing her husband and moving to Missouri, she now finds joy in sharing her grandson's success with others. Taj's commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and carrying his city's legacy forward positions him as a rising star in the hip-hop world.