Jonathan Emile
Introduction
Jonathan Emile (Jon E) (born February 19, 1986) is a Jamaican Canadian hip-hop recording artist from Montreal, Quebec. He is a rapper, singer, producer, activist and a cancer survivor. In October 2015, Emile released his first studio album, The Lover/Fighter Document LP, which incorporates elements of reggae, jazz, R&B and electro-pop. The independent album features collaborations with Kendrick Lamar, Murs and Buckshot.
Biography
Cancer years
At the age of 18, Jonathan Emile was diagnosed with a rapidly growing cancerous tumor. For the next two years, Jonathan Emile employed his philosophy of Mindpeacelove creating music, in the hospital and between his treatments. He finished treatment in December 2005 and completed his remission in December 2010.
2009–present
In 2009, Emile released "The Lover/Fighter Document EP".
Emile released the The Lover/Fighter Document LP on October 9, 2015. He worked and toured with material from the album while attending McGill University as a Philosophy & Political Science major.He released "Heaven Help Dem" as a separate release featuring vocals by Kendrick Lamar taken from his album.
Composition and performance
Jonathan Emile composes and performs in the genres of hip-hop, reggae, R&B and electro-pop. His vocal performance and recording style includes, singing, rapping, free-styling and scatting in English, French and Jamaican Patois. Emile is concerned largely with creating contemporary popular hip-hop and reggae fused with soul music that addresses social, spiritual and moral issues.
Acting
In 2013, Emile made his theatrical debut in the Montreal production of Broadway musical Aint Misbehavin'. His performance achieved broad critical acclaim from both English and French media for his performance of André De Shields original role and his notable interpretation of “The Viper's Drag”.
Activism and philanthropy
He shared his experiences, ambition and music offering mentoring and giving workshops to urban youth.
As a Jamaican Canadian and a member of the Black community, Jonathan Emile performs and participates in Black History Month events.
Discography
| Year | Album | Label |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | The Lover/Fighter Document EP | Mindpeacelove |
| 2015 | The Lover/Fighter Document LP |
Filmography
- 2011: Look Again as a prospective buyer (TV Movie)
- 2012: Being Human (TV series, as Tall Orderly in episode "When I Think About You I Shred Myself")
- 2013: The Horse Latitudes as male nurse (Short film)