JYPSY RUM translates their love for soul music of the early 70’s, combined with urban/pop music of today into a sophisticated sound that enables them to carry their own torch in an era dominated by hip-hop. As portrayed by the bands name, JYPSY RUM is a musical collaboration that bridges the soul, rock, pop, and r&b genres in such a creative way that their shows are becoming what many of their fans are tabbing as an “experience” and not just a live show. Formed in 2009 by lead vocalist/guitarist Octavius Terry who honed his songwriting and performance chops in the underground circuits of Atlanta, GA that has produced acts such as Arrested Development, India Arie and Outcast to name a few, JYPSY RUM is quickly becoming the talk of the town in their new home of Los Angeles, California.
Octavius, born and raised in Atlanta, GA, was a former track and field Olympic hopeful standout, representing the United States as a member of the 95 World Championship Team and the 97 World Championship Team as a 400 meter intermediate hurdler. Although a top 1o world ranked athlete since the mid 90’s and a 2006 Georgia Tech Hall of Fame Inductee, Octavius always knew that his true calling since the age of 5 was singing, writing songs, and performing. He has written songs for producer and Puff Daddy hit man Anthony Dent, the mastermind behind Destiny Child’s hit “Survivor” and Kelly Price’s “She Was A Friend of Mine.” He has also shared the stages with artist like Keith Sweat, Sam Salter, Kiki Wyatt, and Shanice to name a few, and was recently selected as one of Brian McKnight’s 2009 big break segment artist.
With musical influences ranging from Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway, to Marvin Gaye, Brian McKnight and Maxwell, you’ll hear in his voice generations of soul music come together. To hear him is to feel him. “My voice represents everything about me…” he says. It’s a deliberate yet seamless blend of old soul with the new soul of hip R&B because he feels, “…we can always learn from our past, and our future is nothing without it.”
Octavius discouraged by the music industry, and how sometimes authentic singers, songwriters, and true musicians never get a fair chance in an industry where studio production and money hungry impressionable artist are often celebrated, decided to take matters in his own hands. With the help of world renowned choreographer to the stars Jamal Sims, who has to his creative credits artist like Madonna, Miley Cyrus, Britney Spears, Usher, and Spice Girls, JYPSY RUM has quickly began to garner a massive following and exposure under his helpful guidance.
Prepare yourself for a free spirited, euphoric, musical experience…
Introducing JYPSY RUM.
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