Jason D. Harris is redefining the role of a hip-hop producer with his mission of making music that matters. The Grammy contender and the founder of Mind of the Noise Records, Harris has built a career around music with a message—music that heals, empowers, and inspires. From growing up in the streets of St. Louis to his rise in the City of Angels, Jason has been inspiring change with his music. In his current educational program “Beat School with Mr. J,” Harris teaches young people to use musical mindfulness to build the world they want to live in.
Early Life Coming Up in St. Louis
Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, Jason Harris was surrounded by music from an early age. By age five, he played organ and percussion at his family’s church, Celestial Temple of Peace, where his parents served as pastors for 17 years, while actively involved in C.T.P. for 30+ years. Raised in a musically diverse household, he was encouraged to explore his creativity. His brother, Rautu Robert Harris, who danced with artists like Destiny’s Child and Tamia, was a major influence, introducing him to the possibilities of a music career.
Mentored by music pioneers Roscoe Mitchell and John Bischoff, Harris gained technical skills and an appreciation for music’s ability to communicate powerful ideas and emotions. These early experiences laid the foundation for the socially conscious artist and educator he would become.
Bursting onto the Scene in Los Angeles
Harris eventually moved to Los Angeles, working as a playback engineer with renowned professionals, Kevin Tealsey, Vybe Chyle, James Girard, and Kimberly Burse. This opened the door for collaborations with Jennifer Lopez, Ciara, Kid Cudi, and Lupe Fiasco. Jason’s work attracted influential figures, leading him to high-profile projects and global performances.
In 2023, Harris earned recognition as a Grammy contender for “The Essence of Hope,” a spoken word poetry album performed by PoeticMoment and produced by Harris himself. His collaboration with a blind filmmaker on the short film “Dandelions” helped earn the award for Best Student Production at Loyola Marymount University and screening at major film festivals. Harris’s growing list of features, including NBC, FOX2, Coke Studio, 24Hip-Hop, California Gazette, and regular performances at the Hotel Cafe, has helped deliver his message of hope on a growing list of new stages.
Empowering Youth Through “Beat School with Mr. J“
Perhaps Harris’s most significant contribution is “Beat School with Mr. J,” a program he launched to help young people harness music for self-expression and emotional well-being. Harris sees music as more than just entertainment—it’s a way to connect, heal, and build resilience. His program teaches students to “Beat the Odds, Beat the System, and Beat their Doubts and Fears,” using hands-on music production as a vehicle for escaping adversity, much like his childhood. “Beat School with Mr. J” has changed the lives of the Golden State’s children in Inglewood, Hollywood, and Big Bear, to name a few.
In addition to classes, Harris has pioneered the “Buy a Hat, Donate a Class” initiative, where proceeds from merchandise fund education who kids who may normally not have access. This commitment to accessibility underscores his dedication to making a difference, regardless of who you are, or where you live.
Fluke Fluker of Village Nation, a key partner in Harris’s mission shared, “What you did today was unbelievably incredible and powerful. Witnessing this vision come to life has provided me with unspeakable joy.” Fluke’s partner, Brittany added, “Jason’s passion for music is matched only by his commitment to our youth. His innovative methods provide children with a creative outlet that builds confidence, discipline, and integrity.”
Mind of the Noise Records and Beyond
Beyond his musical motivator and educator work, Harris’s record label, Mind of the Noise Records (M.O.T.N.), serves as a platform for artists who want to use their talents for social good. Since launching in 2020, M.O.T.N. has worked with a roster of talented musicians, including neo-soul artist Nat Stephens. Together, they produce music that challenges listeners to move with purpose. In 2022, Harris partnered with Universal Music Group/InGrooves and Reven8te to release his album, American Detox Vol. 1, championing audiences to confront their inner struggles and find peace amidst the chaos.
With plans to expand “Beat School with Mr. J” globally and a growing label focused on meaningful music, Harris is redefining the role of a hip-hop artist in today’s world. His commitment to empowering youth and creating socially conscious music has made him a powerful voice for change. Whether he’s on stage at Hotel Cafe, recording with top artists, or teaching children to unlock the soundtracks of their lives, Jason D. Harris remains a beacon of hope and resilience, proving that music can change the world, one beat at a time.
Show love for Jason D. Harris and Mind of the Noise Records by visiting mindofthenoise.com. Stream Harris’ tracks on Spotify, rock a charity hat to represent the cause, and join the movement behind “Beat School with Mr. J.“— to make an impact on the future of hip-hop.
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