NY-newcomer Jake James released his nostalgic debut single, “Boss Thoughts” today. The new single’s boom-bap soundscape, produced by multi-platinum producer Buckwild (Notorious B.I.G., Nas, Beastie Boys, Fat Joe, Big Pun, Big L,) underscores Jake’s slick lyricism, setting the perfect tone for his debut offering. Premiered via HipHopSince1987, the video features the actual public housing Jake grew up in, as well as his dad and little cousin – a true rags to wall street story. “Boss Thoughts” is available everywhere now, watch the video HERE.
“I am a product of my environment growing up poor in rural upstate NY,” Jake explains to HipHopSince1987. “On my first single, I wanted people to feel my struggles and past traumas translated into my motivation for more. I touch on my friend passing, my best friend getting locked up, and my other best friend getting shot 7 times, as well as my ability to persevere despite it all. On the technical side, the song shows my lyrical abilities. I’m really spitting on a boom-bap instrumental produced by one of the pioneers of the sound – that alone felt crazy.”
Investment banker by day, rapper by night. Coming up in rural upstate New York, pursuing music was low on Jake James’ list of career paths. His love for writing began at five and he recalls writing poetry as his parents played Jazz and Soul oldies.
Jake figured that education would be his easiest way out. At fifteen, he used his top-tier SAT scores to apply for college and was accepted. In college, Jake studied finance, ran his own small equity fund, and began touring small shows in various markets, opening for notable established acts, including G-Unit, Dave East, and Moneybagg Yo. Eventually Jake organically sold-out NYC’s legendary venue, SOB’s on his own. Jake’s talent has garnered the attention and respect of acclaimed producer Statik Selektah and even the iconic Notorious B.I.G.’s producer, Buckwild. From public housing to portfolios, Jake has an unthinkable story to tell, with the release of “Boss Thoughts” and more new music on the way, Jake James is poised for a breakout year.
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