He was one-half of perhaps the most popular hip-hop due of the 80s and 90s, and he is still doing his thing today.
DJ Jazzy Jeff first rose to fame in the mid-1980s as one-half of the dynamic duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, alongside rapper and actor Will Smith. The pair quickly became trailblazers in hip-hop, combining witty storytelling with feel-good beats. Their debut album, Rock the House (1987), introduced the world to Jeff’s signature transformer scratch technique. Follow-up albums like He’s the DJ, I’m the Rapper (1988)—featuring hits like “Parents Just Don’t Understand”—and Homebase (1991), which included the Grammy-winning anthem “Summertime,” a timeless piece of warm weather bliss built on Kool & The Gang’s “Summer Madness.”
Beyond his work with The Fresh Prince, Jeff carved out a reputation as a producer and curator of sound. His solo albums, including The Magnificent (2002) and The Return of the Magnificent (2007), showcased his versatility, blending hip-hop, R&B, and soul into cohesive sonic experiences. Jeff’s production credits span an impressive range of artists, from Jill Scott to Eminem, highlighting his ability to transcend genres.
DJ Jazzy Jeff remains a cornerstone of music history—a trailblazer, innovator, and true keeper of the vibe.