Meet the Head Hype Gurl
Hey, thanks for stopping by.
I’m J.Jae, a D.C. native raised in New Jersey, but I’ve been around. The U.S. Army took me on a tour of the world—from the Pacific Northwest to Virginia and down to Florida, and even a couple of years overseas in Korea and Germany.
After leaving the military, I redefined myself as a creative through acting while pursuing a career in PR and marketing. I eventually launched a boutique media agency in the greater Sarasota-Tampa Bay, Florida area. For over 20 years, my team and I were the go-to experts for web design, video production, and marketing strategy, working with a diverse range of clients, including small businesses, nonprofits, authors, entertainers, and other creative artists.
I’ve worked on some pretty impressive projects, like creating global multimedia campaigns for VisitTheUSA.com and handling editorial for giants like PBS and the Ford Foundation. I even helped produce the first season of the daytime TV talk show Suncoast View.
Why the music industry?
Music has always been a significant part of my life, from the jam-filled weekly family gatherings of my childhood to my brief stint as a vocalist… While recording tracks at the House of Music recording studio, Lauren Hill once told me I could sing!
Still, I never had high aspirations to become a singing sensation. What intrigued me most about listening to the greats like Marvin Gaye, Prince, Gladys Knight, Michael McDonald, Hall & Oates, Billy Joel, Aretha, and so many others was their grit and artistry. The tenacity and dedication it takes to pour your soul out through song astounds me.
I determined that I could become a small part of that magic by supporting artists in achieving their dreams. So, when I was an A&E producer for ABC7, I made sure to book all my musical and creative friends on the show! I guess that’s what started my desire to help creative folks behind the scenes.
My career is now a culmination of years of experience in media production, marketing, and project management, benefiting heart-focused music artists—and I love it!
When I’m not on my grind, I go hiking or Latin dancing, and stay active in my community. I recently relocated to Fort Collins, Colorado, to take advantage of the fresh air and the city’s thriving music scene.
I’m a proud word nerd, a total goofball, and a sci-fi geek. I’m also a passionate advocate and ally for the LGBTQ+ community. I also share my marketing experience as an Adjunct Instructor at Colorado State University.
Why work with Gurl Friday?
I believe in the power of music. Music is life, and I respect and value my clients and their determination to share their gifts. But creating and maintaining systems distracts from your creativity. I work hard behind the scenes, handling your day-to-day hustle so you don’t have to—you have enough on your plate.
Hey, I know you want peace of mind that all your gig and tour details are handled, so get ready to work with your biggest fan, who is also a no-nonsense (yet laid-back) professional tour manager who’s primed and ready to support your success.
Learn how Gurl Friday can support you and your career goals, or get in touch, and let’s do this!