Essentials: Jhayco

Jhayco is a rapper, songwriter, and music producer born in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, and raised in Camden, New Jersey. His passion for music started at a very young age and he wrote his first songs when he was only 11 years old.

Formerly known as Jhay Cortez, the artist’s music career kicked off when he was still a teenager. By the time he was 16, he was already working as a co-writer for reggaeton superstars Zion & Lennox, and his involvement in Tito El Bambino’s “El patrón: invencible” album earned him his first Grammy at age 18.

After years behind the scenes as a co-writer for hits such as “Amanece” by Anuel AA and “RLNDT” by Bad Bunny, Jhayco reached new heights in 2018, making significant contributions to the widely successful “I Like It,” featuring Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin, and later collaborating on the infectiously catchy “I Can’t Get Enough” alongside J Balvin, Selena Gomez, Benny Blanco, and Tainy.

Jhayco’s breakthrough as a solo performer came with “Se Hace La Que No Me Conoce…,” the remixed version of this track, featuring J Balvin and Bad Bunny, reached the top ten charts of Latin Billboard’s Hot 100. Ever since, Jhayco has become a reggaeton powerhouse and one of the hottest Latin artists of our generation.

For the latest installment of Essentials, Hypebeast sat down with Jhayco to chat through his most beloved items.

Luis Ramone/Hypebeast

13-Inch Apple MacBook Pro

As a music producer, Jhayco can’t go anywhere without his MacBook, which is his primary music-making tool.

On-Ear Headphones

His headphones are just as necessary, since he needs to listen to and approve of every single beat in every track he produces.

Vans Chukka Low Sidestripe

Vans has become Jhayco’s favorite sneaker brand and the Chukka Low Sidestripe silhouette is his go-to pick these days.

Luis Ramone/Hypebeast

Japanese-Style Leather Boots

Boots also have a huge spotlight in Jhayco’s closet. When he’s not wearing sneakers, he always goes for this Japanese black leather style.

New York Mets 59FIFTY New Era Cap

Fitted caps are a new addition to Jhayco’s style and this New York Mets 59FIFTY by New Era is his favorite at the moment.

Studded Leather Belt and Distressed, Waxed, Black Jeans

Studded belts and distressed, waxed black jeans are a staple in Jhayco’s wardrobe, part of his rock influences.

Luis Ramone/Hypebeast

Custom Jewelry

Jhayco considers jewelry an art form, and every ring, necklace, or bracelet he wears is chosen based on his personal taste, most of them are custom-made, including pieces by Mexican brand Sánchez Kane, etc.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Mini-Papillon Black Leather Bag

Louis Vuitton is always a great choice for luggage and this mini-Papillon strapless black leather bag is Jhayco’s pick for everyday items.

Chanel Sunglasses

Of course, sunglasses and other accessories follow the same rule, just as these Kurt Cobain-esque Chanel shades.

Luis Ramone/Hypebeast

Panasonic 4K Camcorder

Jhayco decided to start documenting the process behind his music, that’s why a portable Panasonic 4K camcorder has become a new essential for him.

Jhayco x UNION LA “Vida Rockstar” Sweatshirt

Vida Rockstar is the name of Jhayco’s 2023 World Tour and this green sweatshirt is a unique item of his collaboration with LA-based retailer UNION.