Jay Ellis

Jeremy Ellis Edwards, better known by his stage name Jay Ellis, is an American singer, rapper, songwriter, & record producer from Napa, California.

Jeremy Ellis Edwards, professionally known as Jay Ellis, is an American R&B singer, songwriter, rapper, record producer, and independent artist whose sound blends smooth vocals, seductive melodies, soulful emotion, and Northern California flavor.
Born in Vallejo, California, and raised in Napa before later relocating to Sacramento, Jay Ellis represents Northern California through both his music and identity. His passion for music began at an early age through singing, writing poetry, and rapping. One of his earliest major inspirations came from watching The Temptations, whose soul, harmonies, style, and ability to make music for the ladies helped spark his love for R&B.
Jay describes his music in three words: “Smooth, Sexy, & Seductive.” His approach combines classic R&B influences with contemporary production and a distinctive California edge. His musical inspirations range from legendary voices such as The Temptations and Eddie Kendricks to artists including Jon B, JMSN, Chris Brown, G-Eazy, and others.
More than just a vocalist, Jay Ellis takes an independent, hands-on approach to his career. He has written and performed his own material while also handling mixing, mastering, photography, and artwork on multiple releases. That creative independence allows Jay to build not only his music, but an entire visual and artistic identity around the Jay Ellis name.
His growing catalog includes records such as “Closer 2 Me,” “By My Side,” “Don’t Stop,” “Quiet Time,” “Ooh Ooh,” “When I Pull Up,” “Murdered,” and “Layin On Me.” His collaborative work includes “Don’t Stop (Remix)” and “Layin On Me” featuring Rayven Justice, as well as “Find A Way” featuring Kevin McCall With The Newest Collaboration called “Bonita Mamacita” Feat Eli X
At the center of Jay Ellis's music is connection. Whether delivering a smooth slow jam, tapping into his falsetto, or bringing more energy to a record, his goal is to create music listeners can feel and relate to.
Jay Ellis is continuing to expand his catalog, live performances, collaborations, and independent brand while pursuing his goal of establishing himself as a recognizable voice in R&B coming out of Northern California.
Driven by determination, discipline, passion, perseverance, creativity, and independence, Jay Ellis approaches his career with the mindset that every release is another step toward his larger vision.
“Don’t Get Jealous, Cause I’m Jay Ellis.”

*What Inspired you to start making music?

I've always had a passion for music sense childhood, always was singing, writing poems, rapping but didn't take it as serious as I am now. When I was younger my Popz introduced me to the movie, The Temptations which is my favorite group (Otis, David, Melvin, Eddie, Dennis, Paul, & Elbridge)  just something about singing to the ladies. The soul, rhythm & blues they created in general was different. Once I saw them I fell in love with RnB music for real.

*Where were you born & raised?

I was born in Vallejo & raised in Napa, CA when I was a child then I moved to Sacramento, CA with my family & been here ever since.

*What's your biological name?

Jeremy Ellis Edwards is my biological name,

The name Jeremy, a masculine name of Hebrew origin, means "appointed by God" or "God will exalt". It is an anglicized form of the Hebrew name Jeremiah, a major prophet from the Old Testament. The name is also associated with the idea of being uplifted by God.

The name "Ellis" has multiple potential meanings & origins. It can be a variation of the Hebrew name Elijah, meaning "My God is Jehovah".

The surname "Edwards" means "son of Edward." It's a patronymic name, meaning it's derived from the first name of a father or ancestor.

So with that Jay comes from Jeremy & the Ellis comes from my middle name so that's how I came up with my artist name, Jay Ellis. It actually took me a minute finding my name you always go through various names at first when your an artist, it's best to just use your own. 

“Don't Get Jealous, Cause I'm Jay Ellis”

*What's your biggest regret so far? If you don't mind sharing?

My biggest regret so far is not taking my music career as seriously earlier. I’ve always loved music, but I wish I had been more consistent with releasing, promoting, & treating it like a business from the start. That said, it taught me a lot, & now I’m much more focused intentional with everything I do as an artist. Everything happens for a reason, everyone's journey to the destination is different. Regrets teach you to evolve & give you experience. I will reach the highest level & unlock my full potential in music.

*What do you believe you can accomplish in the long run of your career?

In the long run, I believe I can build a sustainable & respected career as an artist, with a strong catalog of music, a loyal fanbase, & consistent opportunities to perform & collaborate at a high level. I want my music to connect with people on a real emotional level, & I see myself growing not just as a performer, but also as a songwriter, creative director, & overall brand. As Jay Ellis, I believe I can be one of the best to do RnB music coming out of Sacramento because I'm so determined, disciplined, & focused to manifest my vision. I believe I can accomplish anything with the grind & hustle I have for real.  Jay Ellis is fueled by success, grind, passion, hustle, mindset, perseverance, talent, grit, persistence, & the ability to conquer failure while chasing his goals.

*How would you describe your music in 3 words?

Smooth, Sexy, & Seductive

*Can you name some artists who inspire you?

The Temptations, Eddie Kendricks, Chester Bennington Of Linkin Park, Jon B, G Eazy, JMSN, Tory Lanez & Chris Brown.

*And lastly tell me a bit more about your upcoming project fans should be anticipating.

My upcoming project is a collection of songs that really represent my growth as an artist and my personal journey over the past year. Fans can expect a mix of heartfelt R&B & high-energy tracks, with lyrics that are both relatable & empowering. I’ve put a lot of focus on production, storytelling, & creating a sound that’s uniquely mine. I’m excited for people to hear it, connect with it, & experience the energy live when I perform.