Meet Jon Ta Douglas of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jon Ta Douglas.

Jon Ta, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My story’s rooted in Compton, but my sound comes from all the places I’ve touched — jazz rooms, camera lenses, youth programs, Leimert Park, city nights. I think I’ve finally reached the point where I feel honest enough with myself to express my point of view in art form. I’ve grown up around music my whole life. Whether it’s family functions or mom & pop’s influences, it’ll never leave me. I started playing flute in middle school, say 7th grade, & once I got to Centennial, I then learned how to play the saxophone. From there, me & some other players were introduced to Fernando Pullum, founder of the pullum center in Leimert Park. Being there showed me how much more i can do with music, being impactful, supporting youth, creating experiences, & bringing people together have gone a long way i would say. I’m currently working on my first visual/musical projects where i look forward to documenting the great city that i’m from, Compton, California.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’d say growing up in the city comes with the ups & down for real. Especially if you have family/friends that have been influenced by street life it can be hard to break out of that mindset. I also believe its a gift & a curse, you learn/see what to do, & what not to do. Going to a school like centennial, were gang culture was very prominent during my first 2 years, it’s easy to fall a stray. The music has definitely kept me from going down those paths for sure, im thankful. I wouldn’t change the city i grew up in for nothing.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m an aspiring artist, i choose to create in many ways whether through music, (saxophone/flute/producing), or visually through film. I also teach youth class in the crenshaw area at multiple schools. I wouldn’t call myself an actor, but i’ve been featured in some dope projects, (Bompton Documentary) lots of music videos, lots of movies, I’d say most people call for for musician stuff but i’m looking forward to expanding that, & just being an asset in every creative way possible.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always open to working with other creatives, i’m currently in Los Angeles area. Any music collabs or film shoots feel free to dm @jaaydover or @jocque_ on instagram, or email [email protected]

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaaydover/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaaydover
• Other: https://jocque.format.com/

Image Credits
Chris Adeniji, Aaron Shaw, Devin Daniels, Shane Cassidy