ABOUT J TONEY

J. Toney, formerly known as Big Thump, is an Oakland-born artist whose journey from adversity to musical recognition reflects resilience, reinvention, and purpose. He began recording music at age 11 using homemade equipment and signed his first record deal while still in high school as part of the duo Syde 2 Syde, whose album SkyBallin’ made an early impact in the Bay Area.

Despite experiencing major setbacks—including homelessness, industry instability, and personal hardships—J. Toney remained committed to his craft. A scholarship from the Oral Lee Brown Foundation allowed him to attend Columbia College Chicago, where he studied Art and Business Management while developing his skills as an artist, producer, and entrepreneur.

J. Toney has also expanded his artistry beyond hip-hop, contributing vocals to two Grammy-nominated projects: The Fury and The Colors in My Mind. Continuing his artistic evolution,

J. Toney released the purpose-driven album Mighty Good, a project centered on love, collaboration, and raising positive energy, accompanied by the affirmation book Spirit C.A.N.D.Y. (Create A New Destiny Yourself).

 

With upcoming hop-funk-soul projects OG Energy and Double OG Energy, he continues pushing his sound forward while staying rooted in the culture that shaped him. A dedicated father and storyteller, J. Toney uses his music, writing, and creative ventures to inspire resilience, empowerment, and transformation—proving that perseverance and vision can turn adversity into legacy.