J Smoke is no stranger to the radio game. While he effortlessly dominated the airways in Albany, Georgia, it wasn’t long before J Smoke realized he wanted more — he wanted to dominate airways in Atlanta. Starting as an intern with Streetz 94.5, it wasn’t long before he was promoted to radio personality. J Smoke is currently hosting the weekday show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. When he’s not on the radio, J Smoke is notably giving back to the community through his many initiatives and spending time with his family. Rolling out caught up with J to hear more about his radio journey thus far.
How’d you get into radio, J Smoke?
I’ve been a DJ since I’ve been 10 years old, like my dad, but I never wanted to be in radio. Because I did really well in school, I attended Albany State for the engineering track with plans to transfer to Georgia Tech. But when I went to college, I knew I was better than the DJs down there. So, I sent a message on Facebook to a friend of mine and he gave me a shot. It has been crazy ever since. I was deejaying parties and dominated the radio in Albany, but I peaked. I wanted more. So, I came back to Atlanta in 2017 for better opportunities.
In Atlanta, I became an intern for Streetz 94.5 for about 5 months. I was then promoted to production assistant for Jammin Jay. Finally, I got my break! I got a call to be on the radio from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the rest is history. God knows that this journey has not be easy and I had to make a lot a sacrifices. The biggest part of my journey is becoming a dad and a husband. A lot of decisions center around my family, and I am not willing to pay the price of my family for success. It took me a little longer, but it was worth it. My wife is very supportive and challenges me to be the best me possible with work-life balance. Thank God for her; I am very grateful for her.
Who is your mentor in the industry?
I don’t have just one single person. I soak up game from a lot of people — Solo, Jerry Smokin B, KBotchey, Jabbar Cash and Brick whose real name is Ryan [laughs]. All of them have really helped me navigate the industry.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Favor ain’t fair, but you have to use it accordingly. God is real. Everything will always work out.
You are very active in the community. Tell us about that.
I have several initiatives:
My Fresh Cuts Initiative is where we provide youth 18 years old and younger haircuts and refreshments in barbershops around the city. We want to let these young men that the streets are not where it is at. We want to facilitate love in troubled areas.
I also have a Catch A Book with J Smoke Initiative. It is a literacy tour in the schools. I go in and read a book, give out prizes and really let them know the importance of knowing how to read.
My wife and I have a financial literacy initiative. My wife is a real estate agent, and she teaches the teachers the importance of owning real estate.
I do a Father’s Day event. It is called a “Day for Dads,” and we celebrate good dads in the community. It consists of vendors, free haircuts and community services. I link up with Georgia Justice Project and Fulton County Solicitor office to provide record expungement services and other free legal services. We also have insurance agencies and credit repair specialists who come out.
My latest initiative is the Hardwood Classics Celebrity Basketball Games. Proceeds from this event will be donated to two homes that house young survivors of sex trafficking.
I like to use my platform to do good in the community.
Who is the hottest artist in the game right now?
Gotta give it to Lil’ Baby hands down. WHAM!
Where can we find you?
@Jsmokeatl on everything.
