John Johnson Jr., better known as Jay Squared, actively challenges the musical status quo from his Detroit roots. He skillfully blends poetic lyricism with experimental hip-hop, R&B, and other genres, creating a distinctive sound that resonates globally. Jay launched his musical journey on SoundCloud in 2016, where his innovative tracks quickly captivated a worldwide audience. Prominent Detroit publications like Metro Times and internet sensations such as Lyrical Lemonade and ELEVATOR now recognize his talent while amassing over 50 million streams across all streaming platforms. He also commands the stage at major local festivals like MOPOP and Arts, Beats & Eats and curates his “Sink or Swim” showcases, cementing his place in Detroit's dynamic music scene.

Jay has significantly impacted TikTok, where his humorous and creative content has amassed millions of views, landing him features on TheShadeRoom, RapTV, and other platforms. His collaborations with renowned producers like Tomppabeats and Rook1e have broadened his reach across digital streaming platforms, showcasing his versatility in the ever-evolving music industry. Beyond music, Jay ventures into scriptwriting and sound design for video games, highlighting his wide-ranging creative talents and inspiring others to push their creative limits.

His employment with the globally acclaimed advertising agency Wieden + Kennedy has been a game-changer, enhancing his influence in marketing and artistic vision. As the founder of the art community called “The Atwater Company,” Jay not only elevates his brand but inspires others with his leadership, creative curation with playlisting, creating culture and experiences for music lovers, and redefining what’s possible in the entertainment industry within the city of Detroit.