South Florida, the melting pot of diverse musical talents such as Trick Daddy, Pitbull, Reggeaton, Rick Ross, Flo-Rida and the Booty Shaking king himself “Uncle Luke”. South Florida has been known to many as the “Magic City” but to one resident, it’s a place full of prosperity. Born August 24th In Broward County, JQ or better know as “Makency Chevelon” had a passion for music starting at a young age. With his melodic, smooth, and island sound, it was clear it would be hard to contain his gift in one genre. Growing up in Ft. Lauderdale with his parents whom migrated from Haiti, JQ was raised listening to various artist and genres. Though JQ didn’t have a favorite specific genre, he gravitated to the Jamaican Culture and to the sounds of Dance-Hall.
JQ’s first introduction as an artist happened by accident. As an adolescent, JQ was sent to another class for misbehaving. Fourth Grade teacher Mr. Ed Peddle, was putting together a play for black history. Every piece to the puzzle was there except one. He started playing Michael Jackson’s classic hit, “Who’s Bad”. JQ sought the opportunity to shine. Jumping out of his seat, JQ started to sing and dance. Frustrated but stunned, Mr. Peddle added JQ as the missing piece to the puzzle. Since then, music has walked with JQ his whole life. At the age of 13, JQ had his first experience with the music industry working with Legendary Reggae producer and CEO of Jam Hill Records, Gary Wong. JQ had the experience to watch many major dancehall artist come through and record. At the time, JQ was a lead rapper and a dancehall singer in a group called the Turbulence Krew. Gaining popularity in the area, JQ had the opportunity at the age of fourteen to record with legendary dancehall artist, Jiggsy King and Don Yute.
Later in 2001, after pounding the phones calling every label under the sun; JQ drove to Def Jam South, who had just opened up a label in Atlanta. Using his wits and ability to persuade, he convinced A&R G Wallace to meet withh him, even though they never spoke before. After meeting with G Wallace, he learned the way to being successful, was to be innovating and independent. As an independent artist for JQ, it’s been challenging but yet rewarding. JQ has been working on tracks produced by Cool and Dre, Jim Jonsin, Diaz Brothers, and Big D who’s also has mentored JQ in his mature career, getting him ready for the big stage. Taking all risk to achieve his dream, JQ made a bold decision to leave the place he called home and move to the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles. A bold move JQ says “was the brightest thing he ever thought of”. To say the lease JQs move to LA actually sped up his process, leaving him inches to the finish line. Sense being LA, he has walked many exclusive red carpet events, opened up for Keshia Cole’s, Too Short, E40, Migos, and the BET Experience.
