Born and raised in the vibrant streets of Harlem, New York, Jae Lat carries the weight of history and artistry in his blood. His great-grandfather was at the forefront of the Harlem Jazz Renaissance, and for Jae, it feels as though he was destined to shift the cultural landscape once again. “It’s in my bloodline, in my DNA,” he says, reflecting on the deep-rooted connection to music that runs through his family. With that legacy in mind, Jae Lat has set out to carve his own path in the world of hip-hop, and he’s doing so with a unique sound that blends the old-school vibes of Harlem with the futuristic energy of today’s music scene.
After a 10-year hiatus, Jae Lat is finally putting out music again. It’s a long-awaited return, and he’s clearly bringing a fresh energy into the game. “It feels amazing to finally put out music after such a long break,” he admits. “This year, in 2024, I’ve crossed paths with so many amazing people, and the timing just feels right.” His latest work resonates deeply with listeners, especially with his combination of hard-hitting, realistic lyrics and a sound that’s both retro and futuristic. It’s this perfect fusion of old and new that defines his artistry. “I’m a mix of old-school Harlem vibes and new school lyrics,” he describes his style. “It’s about blending what’s timeless with what’s current.”
Jae Lat’s music strikes a chord because it’s authentic and raw. “I believe my lyrics are realistic and abrasive in a way that connects with my audience,” he says. “It’s a refreshing sound that they’ve been needing to hear.” His music doesn’t just fill the air with catchy hooks; it carries the weight of real-life experiences and honest storytelling. His fans appreciate the boldness and vulnerability in every track.
While Jae Lat is no stranger to working with teams, he’s chosen to take a more independent route recently. Reflecting on his early experiences, he recalls building a team of 15-20 like-minded individuals who shared his vision for music. “A lot of things didn’t come into fruition back then, so I decided to take matters into my own hands,” he reveals. “I’ve realized I could’ve done it without them the whole time, and now I’m shaping my own future.” Though independent, Jae Lat recognizes the importance of collaboration. While he hasn’t yet collaborated with any artists in his recent work, he emphasizes that any future collaborations will be based on how the music feels to him. It’s all about the vibe.
Jae Lat’s journey is just beginning, but it’s already clear that he’s a force to be reckoned with in the hip-hop scene. From Harlem to the world, Jae Lat is ready to make his mark, and his music will undoubtedly be the soundtrack to that shift. Keep an eye on him—this is only the beginning.
Follow Jae Lat on Instagram ; @_ilovelat and check out his newest songs!
