Straight out of Newark, NJ, DJ ES-Pro—also known as DJ ES-P—is a DJ and producer who’s keeping the heart of hip-hop alive while pushing it into new territory. His sound is a mix of old-school soul and modern edge—blending jazz, R&B, and funk. You can hear the influence of hip-hop’s golden era in everything he touches, but he’s not stuck in the past—he’s moving the culture forward.

His journey started at home, watching his older brother, Tariq Jabez, who first introduced him to music. From there, under the mentorship of E-Swann at Take Flight Productions, DJ ES-P began to shape his sound. Early collaborations with groups like Sez Who, B.L.O.C.S., and H.O.P.E. gave him the foundation to grow into the producer he is today—someone known for crafting records that are raw, soulful, and always authentic.

Over the years, DJ ES-P has worked with a long list of respected artists—Mach Hommy, Planet Asia, Queen Lex, and more. His production isn’t just about making beats—it’s about creating a feeling, telling a story, and honoring the roots of hip-hop while carving out something fresh.

A Purpose Bigger Than Music

 For DJ ES-P, this work isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. “The talent I have isn’t mine alone—it comes from the Most High God, I am just the vessel,” he says. That belief keeps him grounded, even as the music industry constantly shifts.

When he’s locked in on a project, DJ ES-P protects his creative space. He avoids listening to other music while working, ensuring his ideas stay original. “I want the music to come from a real place,” he explains. And it’s that focus that sets his work apart.

A key part of his process is his partnership with Cris “Bass Boy Cris” Williams, a Grammy-winning engineer who helps bring his vision to life. “An engineer can make or break a record,” DJ ES-P says. “Cris understands the vision—he listens, he’s patient, and he’s got the skills to make everything hit just right.”

When collaborating with artists, DJ ES-P takes a hands-on approach. He’s not the type to just send out random beats and hope for the best. Instead, he studies the artist—their sound, their strengths—and works with them to craft something unique. If possible, he prefers to be in the studio together. “The energy is different when we’re in the same room,” he says. “You can feel it in the music.”

More Than a Beatmaker

In a world where anyone with a laptop can call themselves a producer, DJ ES-P makes an important distinction: “A beatmaker just sends out beats. A producer is involved in the whole process—making sure the record is right.”

That means he’s not afraid to speak up if something isn’t working. Whether it’s adjusting a verse, tweaking a hook, or asking for another take, DJ ES-P is all about delivering the best version of a song. “If it’s not right, I’ll say so,” he admits. “The goal is to make the best music possible—no shortcuts.”

While hip-hop is his first love, his creativity doesn’t stop there. He’s currently working on neo-soul and jazz projects, expanding his sound while staying true to the essence of music from the soul.

DJ ES-P Presents: The Lab Mixtape’—A Statement Piece

 His latest project, ‘DJ ES-P Presents: The Lab Mixtape,’ is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a statement. Produced entirely by him and mixed by Cris “Bass Boy Cris” Williams, the mixtape brings together some of the sharpest lyricists while blending gritty boom-bap with modern textures.

It’s a love letter to hip-hop’s past and a vision for its future. Every track feels intentional—raw, unfiltered, and packed with energy. If you’re craving real hip-hop, this is it.

You can experience ‘The Lab Mixtape’ for yourself—it’s available now on Even.biz.

Always a Student of the Game

Despite everything he’s accomplished, DJ ES-P stays humble. He’s constantly learning, drawing inspiration from legends like Pete Rock, RZA, DJ Premier, and a list of other pioneers who paved the way. “I’m always a student,” he says. “The moment you think you know it all, you stop growing.”

For DJ ES-P, it all comes back to the music—the culture—the energy. Every beat, every project is part of a bigger legacy. And as long as he’s behind the boards, you can be sure that legacy will stay alive and well.

Check out DJ ES-P Presents: The Lab Mixtape—available now on Even.biz.

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