Spirit Music is expanding its impressive roster of hitmakers, announcing the signing of Los Angeles-born artist, songwriter, and creative force jayo to a new joint venture with Electric 88. The deal marks another major milestone for one of independent music publishing's fastest-rising talents as he continues to build momentum across pop, alternative, and sync-focused songwriting.
Recognized for crafting infectious hooks, cinematic storytelling, and commercially driven songs with crossover appeal, jayo has quickly become one of the industry's most exciting independent success stories. His songwriting credits already include two standout cuts featured in the 2026 hit film Obsession, while his collaborative ambitions continue to grow alongside some of music's top artists, producers, and writers. Through the new partnership, he joins a Spirit Music roster that includes HARDY, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, The Black Crowes, David Garcia, Ryan Beaver, Monty Criswell, and many more. "Everything about jayo is infectious—his music, his personality, his energy, his passion and his drive," said Spirit Music CEO Frank Rogers. "We are thrilled to partner with Electric 88 to help let the world know about jayo and his music."
Electric 88 founder Erik Belz echoed that enthusiasm, praising not only jayo's songwriting but also his relentless work ethic and authenticity. "jayo is an incredible talent," Belz shared. "His work ethic, creativity, and authenticity are unmatched. I'm excited to help him achieve everything I know he's capable of."
The signing comes at a pivotal moment in jayo's career. His unique blend of emotionally resonant songwriting, humor, and cinematic visuals has helped him amass more than 4 million followers across social media while fueling partnerships with major brands including Chipotle, Uber Eats, PacSun, Tostitos, Mountain Dew, Sprite, Dove, and 5 Gum.
Jayo | Photo: Ravin Goyal Photography
His breakout single, "worst case scenario," has surpassed 30 million Spotify streams, helping establish him as one of independent music's fastest-growing artist-creators. Meanwhile, his latest album, antidepressants, released June 19, continues to showcase his evolution as both an artist and songwriter ahead of a headline tour launching next month.
Despite operating independently, jayo has built an impressive résumé that includes opening national tours for Bryce Vine, Crash Adams, and Anees, headlining Los Angeles' historic Regent Theater, and contributing two songs to the horror film Obsession: "matador (red flags)" and "DAMAGE," featuring Bryce Vine and Ian Everson. He now reaches more than 850,000 monthly Spotify listeners, proving that organic fan connection remains one of his greatest strengths. "I'm excited to do some big things with Spirit Music and Electric 88," jayo said. "As an independent artist, the team around me matters just as much as my songs. It was a no brainer when it came to this team. Spirit Music's writers and artists are constantly showing up on charts and making waves in music. I can't wait to dive in and continue growing in my career with this team at my side."
Founded in 1995, Spirit Music has become one of the world's leading independent publishers through its partnership with Lyric Capital Group, representing an extensive catalog spanning legendary songwriters and today's chart-topping creators. With jayo now joining its acclaimed roster, the partnership positions the viral artist for an even bigger chapter as he expands his songwriting footprint across pop, alternative, film, television, and beyond.