In the fast-paced world of music and business, we always look for that “anchor”—the one who stays grounded while their reach expands. If you look back at 2017, Jahlil Beats was the “hottest young producer in the game,” fresh off the global earthquake that was “Hot N***a” and “Ima Boss.”
When I sat down with him then for Respect Mag, Jahlil was locked in on the music, telling me about his “intense grind”and how he was “learning audio engineering concepts” since he was 11. But fast forward to 2025, and that “young producer” has evolved into a community architect. The “Holla at Me” tag is still legendary, but now Jahlil is answering a different calling.
From the Boom-Boom Room to the Boardroom
In 2017, Jahlil was a cornerstone of the Roc Nation roster. He told me then, “Roc Nation’s treating me good… they got me working for real.” Today, he isn’t just an artist on the label; he’s a veteran mentor and a CEO in his own right. While the music industry shifted toward new subgenres, Jahlil doubled down on his signature orchestral brass sound, calling it “timeless.” But the biggest remix to his story isn’t a beat—it’s his portfolio. Since our original talk, Jahlil has become a real estate mogul in his hometown of Chester, PA. Through Tandem Real Estate Holdings, he’s developing over 400 properties. As he’s noted in recent years, “I’ve been heavy in the real estate… just trying to control, and have it black-owned.”
“The Jahlil Beats Academy”
One of the most powerful updates to the Jahlil story is his commitment to education. Back in 2017, we talked about his roots; now, he’s planting trees for the next generation to sit under. He launched the Jahlil Beats Academy at Chester Community Charter School, ensuring that the same passion he had at 11 years old is accessible to kids in his neighborhood.
He recently reflected on his journey, saying, “My expectation is to provide inspiration and opportunities by bringing businesses that will provide jobs to the residents of the City of Chester.” From opening the #1 DTLR store in the region to bringing healthcare clinics and affordable housing to his city, Jahlil is living out the “boss” lifestyle he used to just produce anthems for.
The 2025 Bottom Line
In our 2017 interview, Jahlil told me, “I just want to be remembered as one of the greats.” By 2025, he’s secured that—not just through his Grammy for Anderson .Paak’s “Bubblin” or his endless plaques with Meek Mill, but through his blueprint for community wealth.
He’s still “emptying the clip” with new music—dropping singles like “Ransom” in late 2025—but his greatest production is the revitalization of Chester. As Jahlil moves in tandem with his city, one thing is clear: the beat hasn’t stopped; it’s just gotten louder.
