Jake James “Boss Thoughts” Video Premiere
An investment banking professional by day and rapper by night, Jake’s lush lifestyle, lavish appearance and sleek hairstyle has caught the eye of many. Jake grew up in rural upstate New York with his parents and older brother. Coming up less fortunate in an environment where kids usually aspire to be carpenters, farmers or mechanics, pursuing music was low on Jake’s list of probable career paths. But after speaking with Mac Miller following one of his shows, Jake was inspired to take his own passion for music more seriously. Anxious to take the next steps in life, Jake figured that education would be his easiest way out. At only fifteen years old, he used his exemplary SAT scores to apply for college and was accepted to attend Baruch College in Manhattan.
“I am a product of my environment growing up poor in rural upstate NY. 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.”
While in college, Jake studied finance, ran his own small equity fund and met his current manager. Together, they constructed a plan to build Jake’s fanbase and began touring small shows in various markets, opening for notable established acts, including G-Unit, Dave East and Moneybagg Yo. Eventually organically selling 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, which he hopes inspires others to take the reins and make a way for themselves in their own lives.
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