Jubi

Jubi (pronounced jew-bee), also known as Mr. “Ay Yo!” is a Jamaican-American from New York on the brink of becoming the hip-hop reggae sensation to join the likes of Sean Paul, Shaggy, Supercat, Beenie Man and Shabba Ranks. Though a citizen of the United States, Jubi spent part of his childhood in Jamaica until he returned to the US to complete grade school. Born into a large and extended family of Jamaican immigrants, Jubi’s passion for music came at an early age listening to his father’s record collection and even meeting the late Bob Marley in Kingston before his passing. “I used to listen to his albums at home so to meet him in person was an experience that always stayed with me," recalls Jubi.
Although his love for reggae was instilled at an early age, as he became more assimilated into American culture, Jubi gravitated towards hip-hop in its so called “Golden Era” during the late 80's and early 90’s. The culture was so compelling that in high school he found himself free-styling in ciphers and performing with friends in showcases. What set Jubi apart from his peers was his distinctive delivery of Jamaican patois and slang. “Kids in school were really open off the accent,” he states. “The guys respected my flow and the girls were loving it. Today I still pursuing the dream through clubs, lounge, college, radio and television performances.”
He did very well in high school without much effort and attended Occidental College in Los Angeles where he graduated with degrees in political science and sociology. While academic courses prepared him for law school, performing in college concerts and club venues allowed Jubi to seriously consider a career entertainment. “Throughout my schooling I was interested in music and film and performed as an artist while preparing for law school. My thinking was that if I wasn’t going be an artist, I would represent artists, actors or labels as an attorney or agent.”
After receiving his undergraduate degrees he returned to New York City and pursued a law degree from Fordham University. As he completed his course of study, Jubi recorded extensively in the studio with hip-hop artists and producers to refine his style and sound. “I now use my degree to fuel my career in the music and entertainment business,” says Jubi. “The world of corporate litigation has really been a stepping stone.” He currently juggles his work as a lawyer, actor and model with his career as a recording artist.
Jubi’s many hours in the studio are not fruitless. In addition to scores of songs, he has produced two Cds: RapJ Volume 1 and RapJ Volume 2. RapJ is the term he coined for his style which combines the elements of dancehall reggae and hip-hop into one cohesive genre. Jubi states that Volume 2 is a complete album that demonstrates his versatility as a lyricist. He lists “Put ‘Em Up”, “Move It”, and “Right Here” as three of his favorite tracks. “These songs showcase the full range of my dialect and delivery. All of the cuts are contagious, beat driven, party oriented songs dedicated to the corporate thug, playboy lifestyle. RapJ is street tested and gyal (girl) approved, meaning it has the best of everything people want in Reggae and Hip Hop: guys and girls having a great time partying all night.” Clearly, Jubi’s music is part of the new era of Caribbean pop music breaking down barriers between people of different backgrounds on the dance floor.
Ultimately, Jubi stands apart from his peers not only for his education, professionalism, and striking good looks, but also for his easy to understand, “hybrid” brand of music. In his own words, “I’m not only trying to earn a dollar; I want to make history.” With determination like that, and the drive to follow, he cannot be stopped. Be on the lookout!