Jaye Hunnie on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jaye Hunnie. Check out our conversation below.

Jaye, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
Many people hold misconceptions about record labels. It’s because of horror stories about artists that signed bad contracts. While it’s true that some deals can be bad, not all contracts are the same. Many artists assume that not being signed means the ultimate freedom. That’s understandable but in some cases releasing music through a record label can be beneficial. Reputable labels can provide support for projects, connect artists with valuable opportunities, and ensure that their work is protected and properly distributed. It’s also important for artists to understand that recording contracts are negotiable. The first contract is not final and etched in stone. If there’s terms on the contract they don’t agree with, revisions can be discussed and the label may comprise. It could be a win-win situation.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Jaye Hunnie. I do A&R work for House Music labels, which means I connect talented producers and artists with record labels and support their projects. I truly enjoy being bridge that connects artists to their dreams. My primary label is Humble House Records, a Florida-based label specializing in House and Electronic Dance Music, which recently won ‘Best Record Label’ at Creative Loafing’s Best of the Bay. I’ve signed several producers to Humble House, and one of them is set to release new music next month. Also, I’m working with a record label founded by a legend in Soulful House Music, and I’m collaborating with a London-based brand that focuses on promoting Black women producers in the Electronic/Dance Music scene—a mission that resonates with me, especially since I founded the Women of House Music Collective in 2021.

Recently, I was asked to co-host a House Music event, which turned out to be a lot of fun. Event hosting wasn’t on my radar but I really enjoyed it, which is great because I’ve been asked to host again.

On top of all that, in the summer I became a member of the Recording Academy, a.k.a. The GRAMMYS. I received my invitation a few months ago, and being part of that community has already opened doors to amazing connections.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I have always been myself, a true music lover at heart. As a little girl, I could spend hours glued to the radio or watching music videos every single day. My family and friends didn’t understand it but they let me be me. I was, and still am, obsessed with music.
Ironically, I never had the desire to create music or DJ. Usually music enthusiasts became musicians, singers, or DJs but I didn’t want to do any of that. I wasn’t sure how to channel my love for music. Later in life, I discovered there’s various roles in the industry that I could do, like music journalism and A&R. My passion and knowledge for music are put to use in those roles and I absolutely love that.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Life is really about the people that you have in it. Success is nothing if you don’t have loved ones to enjoy it with.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I want to see people in the underground, especially Soulful House Music artists receive international opportunities, accolades and income like the EDM counterparts that copy the underground.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I always put my best foot forward whether it’s seen or not. Sometimes it’s about the big picture, not who the star player is.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayehunnie
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jayehunniex