DJ Harrison

Biography

DJ Harrison, born Devonne Andre Harris in 1988 in Petersburg, Virginia, is a highly versatile multi-instrumentalist, producer, songwriter, and recording engineer whose work bridges jazz, funk, hip-hop, soul, and R&B. Raised in Richmond, VA, in a musically rich household—his mother a music aficionado and his father a radio DJ—Harrison was immersed in a wide spectrum of sounds from an early age. He began experimenting with instruments as a child, starting with drums at age three, then moving on to piano, bass, and a variety of wind instruments during his school years. His early fascination with both the mechanics of music and the art of recording led him to pursue formal studies in jazz at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he further honed his craft and met future collaborators.[1][3][6][7]

Harrison's career is marked by both prolific solo output and deep collaborative work. As a founding member and keyboardist of the acclaimed jazz/hip-hop fusion band Butcher Brown, he helped shape a sound that draws from '60s jazz, '70s funk, and modern hip-hop. His solo albums, including 'HazyMoods,' 'Tales from the Old Dominion,' and 'Shades of Yesterday,' showcase his ability to blend live instrumentation with sample-based production, often paying homage to his musical heroes. Harrison is also the founder of Jellowstone Studios in Richmond, a creative hub for local and national artists. His production and session work have earned him two Grammy nominations, and he has contributed to projects by Jack White, Nicholas Payton, Kurt Elling, Charlie Hunter, and many others.[1][2][4][5][8]

Known for his experimental spirit and deep respect for musical tradition, DJ Harrison's legacy is one of innovation and mentorship within the contemporary jazz and beat-making communities. His influence extends through his collaborations, his stewardship of the Richmond music scene, and his genre-defying approach that continues to inspire a new generation of musicians.[1][2][3][4]

Fun Facts

• DJ Harrison started playing drums at age three and later taught himself multiple instruments, including piano, bass, and various brass and woodwinds.[1][9]
• He founded Jellowstone Studios in Richmond, VA, which became a central hub for the local music scene and home to many significant recordings.[1][4]
• His album 'HazyMoods' was recorded entirely to tape in his living room studio, reflecting his love for analog sound.[3]
• He is a two-time Grammy nominee, recognized for his work with Kurt Elling and Charlie Hunter on the 'SuperBlue' albums.[2]

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Parents (Mother and Father) - Mother was a music aficionado, father was a radio DJ; both fostered his early musical curiosity and exposure. (N/A) [1988–present]
• J Dilla - Major stylistic influence on his approach to hip-hop production and sampling. (Solo beat tapes, production style) [2000s–present]
• Pete Rock - Influence on his hip-hop and jazz-fusion production techniques. (Solo work, Butcher Brown projects) [2000s–present]

Key Collaborators

• Butcher Brown - Founding member and keyboardist; core creative collaborator. (Solar Music, multiple albums and live performances) [2010s–present]
• Nicholas Payton - Session musician and collaborator; recorded at Jellowstone Studios. (Numbers (album)) [2014]
• Kurt Elling & Charlie Hunter - Session musician (keys) and bandmate on collaborative jazz albums. (SuperBlue, SuperBlue: The Iridescent Spree) [2021–2023]
• Jack White - Session musician and contributor. (Various recordings) [2010s–2020s]
• Corey Fonville - Butcher Brown bandmate and frequent collaborator. (Butcher Brown albums, SuperBlue projects) [2010s–present]

Artists Influenced

• Richmond, VA music scene - Mentor and facilitator through Jellowstone Studios; nurtured emerging artists. (Jellowstone Records releases) [2010s–present]
• Younger jazz/hip-hop producers - Inspired by his genre-blending production and DIY ethos. (Beat tapes, Stones Throw releases) [2010s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Erykah's Gun (Stashboxxx)
2. Dilla's Eclair (Stashboxxx)
3. Carnaval '74 (Stashboxxx)
4. Block Party 4 Yall (Stashboxxx)
5. Young Buck (Homegrown)
6. Gentle Thoughts
7. Let Me Know (Stashboxxx)
8. Have You Ever Been (to Electric Ladyland) (Tales from the Old Dominion)
9. JUKE JOINT
10. I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia