Above photog (courtesy of New Spin Films) features DJ Luvva J from the "Jump Kick the Legs" video. DJ Luvva J takes the final, clean-up verse of the song. Smooth.
DJ Luvva J Drive!
Olympia's hometown hip hop artist and activist DJ Luvva J died one year ago this week from complications ofCOVID-19. He is being remembered in Thurston County with a street named after him in his former neighborhood, just outside of Lacey, Washington. According to 206 Zulu, Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder, who attended North Thurston High School with Jose Gutierrez AKA DJ Luvva J, they wanted to memorialize this cherished member of the community. DJ Luvva J contributed so much through his love and sharing of music, his activities mentoring youth and raising awareness through annual Hip Hop for the Homeless benefit events.
Says Mayor Ryder, “He’s been a long time sort of hero of mine. You know, someone I’ve admired for ever and ever…” 206 Zulu reports "Ryder also signed a proclamation that Jose proposed to the city council, declaring November Hip Hop History Month in Lacey. It was one of his first proclamations as mayor."
Above: Calvin Johnson and DJ Luvva J at the K office following the filming of the "Jump Kick the Legs" video, 2014.
DJ Luvva J was a longtime programmer on local community radio station KAOS-FM where he hosted Live from I-5; DJ Luvva J began volunteering at KAOS-FM at the age of 12. He also appeared on the Northwest hip hop compilation All Your Friend's Friends [KLP255], released by K in 2014. He is featured prominently in the video for "Jump Kick the Legs", a song where he is the featured artist on the last verse.
All Your Friend's Friends [KLP255], Northwest hip hop compilation