From a young boy recording songs in Montego Bay to becoming one of dancehall’s most recognisable international stars, Teejay’s rise has been built on far more than hit songs. Behind the success of tracks like Uptop Boss and Drift is a story of perseverance, family, discipline and an unwavering desire to create a better future.
Speaking with Jamaicans.com, the songwriter and entertainer reflected on his journey, the lessons he has learned along the way, and what continues to motivate him as his career reaches new heights.
The Young Star from Montego Bay
Born Timoy Janeyo Jones on October 3, 1994, Teejay grew up in the Glendevon community of Montego Bay, St. James, where music was a constant presence in his life. His mother was a singer, and his brothers nurtured his early passion for music, encouraging his talent and helping to shape the artist he would eventually become.
“I started my musical journey from a tender age,” he recalled. “My first song was recorded when I was in fourth grade.”
Music quickly became more than a hobby. He participated in school performances, JCDC festivals and spent much of his childhood developing his craft. His mother played a particularly important role, encouraging creativity rather than discouraging the noise that came with a house full of aspiring musicians.
But talent alone was not enough. Becoming a father at a young age brought new responsibilities and a renewed sense of purpose.
“When I remember the past where I’m coming from, five of us sleeping on one bed, I always wanted to change that,” he said. “I use my past as my craft to push forward.”
A Trap Dancehall Pioneer
Long before mainstream success arrived, Teejay spent years recording music, performing and refining his sound. That persistence eventually paid off, but not before countless hours in studios and on stages across Jamaica.
Along the way, he became part of a generation of Montego Bay artistes helping to reshape modern dancehall. Teejay credits fellow artistes such as Rygin King and Squash with helping establish what many now recognise as trap dancehall—a sound that blends traditional dancehall with influences from trap, drill and other contemporary genres.
“We create a different sound,” he explained. “Modern dancehall.”
The movement brought fresh energy to the genre and helped position Montego Bay as one of Jamaica’s most influential musical hubs in recent years.
The Rise of the Uptop Boss
While Teejay had built a loyal following before 2018, it was Uptop Boss that transformed his career.
The song’s success did not happen overnight. Teejay acknowledges a dedicated team, grassroots promotion and the support of Romeich Entertainment for helping the record reach a wider audience.
“There wasn’t a dollar to push that song or even shoot the music video,” he recalled. “But we believed in the song.”
The track resonated deeply with listeners and helped establish the “Uptop Boss” brand that remains closely associated with him today.
For Teejay, being an Uptop Boss goes beyond music.
“It always feels good to know that people look up to you as a role model,” he said. “You have to do the right thing and set an example.”
That breakthrough was followed by a string of successful releases, including the global hit Drift, which became a viral sensation on platforms like TikTok and introduced his music to audiences far beyond the Caribbean.
Lessons, Growth and Staying Grounded
Despite his success, Teejay remains focused on learning and improving. He points to collaborations with established artistes such as Shaggy as pivotal moments in his development.
From songwriting advice to lessons in professionalism, he says he continues to learn from those who came before him.
“The work never stops,” he said, noting that observing the discipline of veteran artistes helped shape his own approach to the business.
He also believes curiosity has been one of his greatest assets. Whether learning about the music industry, networking or improving his communication skills, Teejay says he is always looking for opportunities to grow.
“I don’t know everything,” he admitted. “So when people are talking, I listen, observe and try to learn.”
That mindset, coupled with a strong work ethic, has helped him navigate the highs and lows of an industry where talent alone is rarely enough.
Focused on the Future
Even with international hits, sold-out performances and a growing catalogue of music, Teejay insists he is still focused on what comes next.
His upcoming album, No Distraction, reflects the mindset that has guided much of his career: staying focused despite obstacles and keeping his eyes on the bigger picture.
As he continues touring and expanding his global reach, family remains at the centre of his motivation.
For Teejay, the journey is far from over. The same determination that pushed a young boy from Glendevon into the recording studio continues to drive the entertainer today. While his achievements continue to grow, his focus remains fixed on hard work, family and taking Jamaican music to new heights.
Watch the full interview with Teejay on the Jamaicans.com YouTube channel here, and don’t forget to subscribe for more stories, interviews and insights from Jamaicans making their mark across the globe.
