Born in Philadelphia to music loving parents, King Jester (Jes) grew up steeped in Classic Soul, R&B, Rock, and Classical music. In his early twenties, he arrived at the Berklee College of Music a drummer, but left a bass player. Later—while cutting his teeth in New York City—he chanced upon a blues jam session. One sit in was all it took, and Jes was a member of the house band. That was the beginning of a journey that included performing with Sting, Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, Bruce Katz, Abbey Lincoln, and many more.
After recording, playing, and touring behind other artists, he returned to Philadelphia. Once there, Jes began writing and producing with other blues-based artists. Always eager to learn, he added the slide guitar to his growing repertoire of instruments. Following in the footsteps of many jazz and blues greats, he transitioned from hired gun to band leader.
During their time together, jazz vocalist Abbey Lincoln referred to King Jester as "the future of music."