With his humble spirit and easy-going demeanor, Jay Terry could simply "fit in" as another person amongst a crowd of many. The reality is that with his incredible voice, extraordinary writing ability, hypnotic production, and charming smile, Jay Terry will soon be someone that the entire world knows. Born of gospel artist Michelle Terry of Healing Hearts Ministries, Jay was raised primarily in our nation's capitol by his single mother, but moved often, never finding a comfort zone as a child. Before finishing grade school, he attended three different schools in the Washington Metropolitan area. Since that time Jay has lived in four different states and attended five other schools. Jay did not always have a musical career in mind. Throughout high school, Jay made a name for himself on the varsity track team and the Alpha Omega step team. "I wasn't interested in singing although I loved music and played three instruments. I even wrote poetry, but it was all about being popular with the ladies and getting a track scholarship. Even still, I always had a plan, but that plan was to be a surgeon." It was not until the age of 15 that Jay discovered the gift that would capture his heart. While inquiring about a music theory class, Jay was pointed in the direction of the musical arts instructor, Ned Lewis. Mr. Lewis was also the director of the well-known High Point Concert Choir. Jay was convinced to join the choir and found in Mr. Lewis a mentor and father figure that would help him to discover his newfound talent and hone his skills. It was during this time that Jay was introduced to performing classical and opera music. "I loved gospel and R&B and was listening to Luther Vandross, Patti Labelle, Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Donny Hathaway. My mother had me listening to jazz and classical and that made my taste in music very eclectic, but I never thought that I would be singing classical and opera." In his senior year Jay suffered a hamstring injury that ended his final season as a runner. As a result, Jay did not receive a scholarship to run in college and joined the military. It was a decision that no one was happy with, but soon Jay realized that it was all a part of the plan that God had for his life. It was during this that he met producer Tom Taliaferro (Blackstreet, Bobby Brown), who sparked his interested in pursuing a career in music and producing. Soon thereafter, Jay was introduced to engineer Paul Arnold (Destiny's Child, Tupac, Christina Aguilerra), where he would gain invaluable technical experience and become familiar with the recording process. Jay soon became infatuated with every aspect of the music industry. He began to produce music that eventually would make him well sought after in the mix tape market. As Jay's production began to progress, he began producing and writing for gospel artist Michelle Terry for the upcoming "Healing Hearts on the Altar" album. Using a blend of his Caribbean roots, gospel background, and love of R&B Jay's production became refined and diverse. Listening to his sultry vocals, extensive range, and silky riffs, one would be compelled to throw out names like Brian McKnight, Musiq Soulchild, Smokie Norful, or Tonéx in an effort to compare Jay to those who have come before him. Take another listen and you will see that Jay has taken a small piece of those who have paved the way and created a style and identity all his own. Jay is now taking the time to carefully perfect his self-titled premier, in which he co-writes and co-produces many of the albums songs. The album is a carefully blended mix of up-tempo "club-bangers," mid-tempo grooves, and sultry ballads. Whether it be on the dance floor, a romantic evening with your lover, or simply a time to relax, Jay's songs are filled with passion, excitement, love, and the reality of relationships that will bring you in and make you want to stay a while. "I've put my heart and soul into this album and it shows through the music. I want each person that listens to this record to feel what I have felt and understand and relate to it." It is Jay's turn to step from behind the scenes and into the forefront to share with the world his version of the gift of song. "It was a little tougher than I expected. I was so used to being the writer and producer, but now I have to be aware of my own lyrics and critique myself with the same precision and passion as I do others. Now the spotlight is on me. I have to deliver, and that is a whole new experience for me." When asked about future plans, Jay responds without hesitation "This first album is my priority. I want to make a lasting impression on the industry and the fans so that I may have longevity in my career. Let there be no question. I am an artist first. Eventually I would like to do some acting and modeling, but more so get into the business aspect of the industry. " Jay Terry is ready to take the music industry by storm and become a part of the millions of listeners' lives. "I feel honored and privileged to be able to share my gift with the world and touch the lives of others." That same young man that fits in walking down the street is someone that we will all soon get know and learn to love.
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