A composer, songwriter, musician, and producer, Menoza has patiently been perfecting his sound for years. He has composed, written and produced hundreds of songs for various R&B, Hip Hop, and Dancehall artists, and has been profiled in a number of publications, notably; The Montreal Gazette and Global CH TV. He has been awarded two songwriting grants from the Canadian government (F.A.C.T.O.R.) and his music has received regular airplay on Montreal urban radio stations CKUT 90.3 FM and K103.7 FM. Menoza independently released two compilation albums “Escape to Paradise,†and “Crossroads.†Both releases were composed and produced by Menoza and performed by the members of his collective “The Farm Team.†They’ve sold out multiple venues including twice at The Hard Rock, Montreal and were voted the number one urban act in Montreal by the readers of the Montreal Mirror. Menoza’s single “Got Me Tryin – Belle†was recently released on Wikkid Records and was also featured in season two of the hit TV show Falcon Beach along with his song “My Nile – Melody.†In his latest project “Synthphony in A minor,†Menoza draws inspiration from movie scores and classical composers creating an orchestral masterpiece for the 21st century. His combination of dramatic melodies, synthetic sounds and clever polyrhymic percussion leave the listener begging for more.
Born Jonathan Loren Simon on June 30th, 1979, and growing up in Florida Menoza was taught the importance of having music in his life. At the age of seven, he reluctantly took up the piano, only realizing later that the valuable music theory he was learning would form the basis that would allow him to compose his future songs. He later picked up the clarinet and saxophone and thrived in his high school band.
While at the University of Florida, Menoza began to focus on his passion. Any spare time he had was spent locked away composing and refining his music. “I could compose music but I had no real experience or knowledge producing; I learned all I could on my own.†Through the years his equipment and sounds got better and so did his productions. After graduating from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in History, Menoza was at a crossroad.
In the summer of 2002, Menoza decided he needed to take a risk if he wanted to accomplish his dream. Armed with his dual citizenship he headed to Montreal, Canada, enrolling at the Trebas Institute. Even though he was learning technical knowledge at his new school he was eager to gain practical experience. Shortly after arriving in Montreal, Menoza started his own production company and began recruiting artists to produce and develop. After graduating from the Trebas Institute with an Audio Engineering degree Menoza took a position with Third Side Music Publishing under his teacher and mentor Mary Harris. Under Harris, and partner Patrick Curley, an entertainment lawyer; Menoza learned all he could about the music business.
In January of 2004 Menoza along with his partner M.O., formed “The Farm Team,†an association of artists, producers, graphic designers, and web designers. All working together, recruiting artists, sharing contacts, and creating their music. Since its inception, The Farm Team and its members have released two compilation albums: “Escape to Paradise,†and their sophomore effort “Crossroads†which have received excellent reviews.
Menoza is a lover of all music and draws his inspiration from everything from Bach to 2Pac. His love of Hip Hop, R&B and Dancehall music began in high school after being introduced to artists like Missy Elliot, Shaggy and 112 by friends at school. Influenced by producers like Timbaland, Baby Face, and the Neptunes, Menoza molds heartfelt lyrics over memorable melodies and intricate polyrhythms. He has just completed his instrumental Opus and is currently working with a number for artists including Tek Luchiano and former BET Battle Rap Champion and Ruff Ryders artist “Jin.â€Contact: [email protected]