JAYSOUL (A Book Called Galanta . Whiskey Pickle Records . Henchman3 Productions . Portsmouth
Underground Radio) Cleveland, Ohio, USA
Jason Johnson, better known as Jaysoul, is a veteran DJ, producer, promoter, graphic artist, radio host, and
community builder with more than three decades dedicated to underground dance music culture.
Growing up in New England during the formative years of the East Coast electronic music movement,
Jaysoul was immersed in a scene built on passion, creativity, and community. Surrounded by pioneers who
helped shape the underground, he developed a deep respect for both the music and the culture that
supports it. Among his greatest influences is DJ Jackmaster Flash, widely regarded as one of the godfathers
of the New England rave scene and East Coast underground movement, as well as the founder of A Book
Called Galanta. Through Jackmaster Flash and the extended Galanta family, Jaysoul learned the importance
of musical storytelling, technical skill, and fostering community through music.
Influenced by artists, crews, and collectives such as A Book Called Galanta, K.C. and the Sunrise Gang,
Primary, and The Warped Crew, Jaysoul developed a sound rooted in deep house, disco, acid house, soulful
grooves, and underground dance music traditions. What began at house parties and underground events
throughout New England evolved into a lifelong journey that has taken him across the country and placed
him alongside some of the most respected names in electronic music.
Over more than three decades behind the decks, Jaysoul has earned a reputation as a versatile and
knowledgeable selector capable of moving effortlessly between deep, soulful, funky, and driving house
sounds. Throughout his career he has shared stages and lineups with respected artists including Terry
Mullan, DJ Dan, Dubtribe Sound System, Andrew Emil, Scott Diaz, Sleepy C, and countless others.
After relocating to the Midwest, Jaysoul released his first full-length album, Spiritual Elevation, a
collaborative production with longtime friend Mr. Smith. His passion for production was further
demonstrated through his role as a founding member of Frameshift Recordings from 2000 to 2003 in
Cleveland, Ohio, where he developed his skills in audio production and recording.
A move to Austin, Texas, placed Jaysoul in the center of one of the most vibrant music scenes in the United
States. The city’s thriving underground house culture reignited his creative energy and helped establish his
reputation as both a DJ and promoter. During his years in Austin, he held long-term residencies at Karma
and The Cockpit, becoming a respected fixture within the local house music community. These residencies
allowed him to refine the deep, groove-driven style that continues to define his performances today.
It was also in Austin that fate reunited him with longtime friend and collaborator Adam Warped. A brief
conversation between the two ultimately led to the creation of Whiskey Pickle Records, a label that would
grow into one of the most respected names in leftfield disco, nu-disco, house, and underground dance
music. As co-founder, Jaysoul helped lay the foundation for a label that has featured acclaimed artists
including The Hardkiss Brothers, Nathan Stewart, Jason Merle, P-Rez, Blue Soul, Chicken Lips, and many
others. Over the years, Whiskey Pickle Records has developed an international following and continues to
be recognized for its unique sound, eclectic roster, and unwavering commitment to quality underground
music.
Returning to Cleveland in 2011, Jaysoul quickly reconnected with longtime friends and collaborators Eric
Davenport, Andre Leone, and Steve “Sleepy C” Cinch. Together they launched .: home :. , a celebrated event
series that brought some of the country’s most respected underground artists to Northeast Ohio on a
monthly basis. The events became known for their welcoming atmosphere, exceptional music
programming, and dedication to preserving the spirit of underground dance culture.
Following the success of .: home :. , Jaysoul remained a driving force within the region’s electronic music
community. He organized and participated in numerous memorable events while maintaining a residency
with Thoroughly Raw, one of Ohio’s longest-running weekly house music gatherings.
In early 2016, Groovehaus founder Kevin Bumpers invited Jaysoul to join the organization as both
consultant and resident DJ. During this period, Groovehaus hosted an impressive series of events featuring
internationally respected artists including Todd Edwards, DJ Dan, Andrew Emil, Scott Diaz, Jask, and many
more, helping further strengthen Cleveland’s underground house music scene.
Since returning from Texas, Jaysoul has continued to expand his reach throughout the Midwest, performing
at clubs, special events, and underground gatherings across the region. Among these highlights was an
appearance at Detroit’s renowned Grasshopper Underground, where he opened for Golf Clap (Bryan Jones
and Hugh Cleal) and Vanilla Ace, further solidifying his reputation as a seasoned performer capable of
delivering memorable sets alongside some of house music’s most respected contemporary artists.
Today, Jaysoul remains an integral member of Henchman3 Productions, contributing as a DJ, graphic artist,
creative consultant, and trusted member of the organization’s family. He is also a founding member of
Grooved Pavement Productions alongside longtime friends Jamie Lyn and Eric Davenport, continuing a
decades-long commitment to building community through music.
In addition to performing live, Jaysoul has become a familiar voice to listeners around the world through his
work with Portsmouth Underground Radio. Beyond his role as a featured DJ, he has taken on management
responsibilities within the station, helping support its growth and daily operations while championing
underground music and emerging talent.
Jaysoul hosts two regular programs on Portsmouth Underground Radio. Every Tuesday from 11:00 AM to
1:00 PM EST, he presents “Jaysoul’s Drive Time Grooves,” a carefully curated journey through deep house,
disco, soulful grooves, and underground dance music from around the globe. He also hosts the popular
Friday overnight program, “Overnights with Jaysoul,” providing listeners with an extended soundtrack of
underground sounds for late-night and early-morning listeners.
Whether broadcasting worldwide, performing in clubs, producing music, creating visual artwork, promoting
events, or supporting the next generation of artists and DJs, Jaysoul continues to embody the spirit of
underground dance music culture. More than thirty years into his journey, his passion remains as strong as
ever. His infectious energy, deep musical knowledge, and unwavering dedication to the underground
ensure that every Jaysoul performance remains a unique and memorable experience.
Connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JaysouIDJ Mixcloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/Jaysoul/
Booking Inquiries: Benjamin Cohen Founder & President Henchman3 Productions
phn:(330)703-3309
email:bcohen330@gmail.com