Jaz-O, also known as J. Burks and “The Originator,” is a legendary platinum producer, rap artist, and Hip Hop pioneer credited with creating the influential “triplet style” of rhyming that helped shape modern rap music. As the founder of Kingz Kounty Media Group, Jaz-O continues to impact music, media, publishing, and artist development.

A mentor and collaborator to iconic artists including Jay-Z and The LOX, Jaz-O produced and appeared on Jay-Z’s breakthrough hits “Ain’t No Nigga” and “Nigga What, Nigga Who?” He also worked with legendary artists such as Rakim, Queen Latifah, and Kool G Rap.

In 1988, Jaz-O became the first rap artist signed to EMI Records and received the largest recording budget ever awarded to a Hip Hop artist at that time. He also made history as the first artist and producer to record Hip Hop music at D&D Studios. Today, Jaz-O continues to expand his legacy through music, mentorship, and his forthcoming book, The Jaz-O Writer’s Guide 1: Nigga What, Nigga Who?