Welcome to the soulful universe of Lester Jay—a Chicago-born vocalist, performer, and storyteller whose voice carries the lineage of Black soul brilliance.

A graduate of Columbia College Chicago with a Bachelor’s degree in vocal jazz performance and acting studies, Lester has spent over 15 years shaping stages across the Midwest and South. His artistry has anchored powerhouse ensembles such as the Dennis Keith Experience, TVK Orchestra, and the Chicago Elite Orchestra, while his solo work—released under the name Lester Jay—blends house, R&B, and pop into a signature sound found on streaming platforms worldwide.

Lester’s musical journey is rooted in collaboration and community. He has worked with celebrated producers and DJs including DJ Ron Pullman (Atlanta), DJ Craig C (Colorado), The Bodega Boys (New York), and Deep Soul Syndicate (Chicago). His voice has crossed genres and generations, leading to creative partnerships with Grammy Award–winner Shawn Hibbler, Drag Race icons Yvie Oddly and Shea Coulee, and dynamic live performance collaborations with artists like Donald Lawrence and talents from American Idol.

At the heart of Lester’s artistry lies a deeper calling: honoring the legacy of Black soul and the artists who shaped it.

Today, Lester Jay and his band, The Jaystones, are in production for the ULTIMATE Luther Vandross Tribute—a show that celebrates Luther not only as a musical titan, but as a quiet, powerful pillar of Black queer expression. For Lester, Luther Vandross was more than a voice; he was a mirror. A reminder that tenderness, vulnerability, elegance, and emotional truth are sacred parts of Black identity, especially within the queer community. This tribute stands as a love letter to Luther and to the Black soul artists whose brilliance continues to inspire generations.

Lester’s performances—whether leading his band, honoring Amy Winehouse in Tears Dry on Their Own, or joining forces in collaborative live performances—are marked by a magnetic stage presence and a voice that carries both technical mastery and emotional depth. With The Jaystones behind him, each show becomes a cinematic experience: lush, intimate, and unforgettable.

Join Lester Jay on this journey through soul, memory, and celebration. Every note is a story. Every performance is an offering. And this tribute to Luther Vandross is a moment you won’t want to miss.