Jazzy Jeff

Jazzy Jeff, born Jeffrey Allen Townes in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a highly influential American DJ, record producer, and songwriter. Rising to prominence in the late 1980s as one half of the iconic hip-hop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince alongside Will Smith, Jazzy Jeff significantly shaped the sound and artistry of hip-hop through his exceptional turntable skills, including his signature "transformer scratch." Winning the first-ever Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance in 1989 with "Parents Just Don't Understand," he helped bring hip-hop to mainstream audiences while maintaining its authentic spirit.

Beyond his celebrated collaborations with Will Smith, Jazzy Jeff has worked with a wide array of artists across genres, producing tracks for the likes of Jill Scott, Eminem, and The Roots. With acclaimed solo projects such as "The Magnificent" and "The Return of the Magnificent," as well as his pivotal role in the evolution of neo-soul and contemporary R&B, Jazzy Jeff continues to innovate and mentor emerging talent, solidifying his reputation as a pioneer, tastemaker, and torchbearer in the global music community.