NY-newcomer Jake James released his follow-up single “Celebration” featuring GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter Stacey Barthe today, after exclusively premiering on SiriusXM’s Shade 45 last night. On the new single, Jake tells an aspirational story over Statik Selektah’s (Nas, KRS-One, Wiz Khalifa, Action Bronson) stripped down boom-bap beat, delicately interwoven with Stacy’s counterpoint melodies.
“Celebration” featuring Stacey Barthe is available everywhere now.
“Celebration” comes behind Jake’s nostalgic debut single, “Boss Thoughts.” The 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. Sitting at nearly 100K views, 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 – watch the video HERE.
Investment banker by day, rapper by night. Coming up in rural upstate New York, pursuing music was low on Jake’s 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.