JayTee THOMPSON
By Ozzy Neav
Posted: January 2008
“A lot of people criticized me
and judged me everywhere,"
says JayTee (JT) Thompson.
Reality TV star, rapper and part-
time philosopher, JT has not
allowed criticism and
controversy to hinder his climb
up the entertainment food
chain. JT is straightforward and
refreshingly nonpolitical in an
age where the lines between
entertainment and politics are
difficult to discern.
De Novo Magazine recently caught up with this Reality TV enigma. Thank you for taking
the time out of your busy schedule for this interview JT.
Ozzy: There are lots of differences, but what would you say is the biggest
difference between L.A. and the Virgin Islands?
JT: I would have to say the big difference would be the street life. L.A is more prone to
violence and "gangbanging." The Island is peaceful (no color lines).
Ozzy: What are your thoughts on the criticism “College Hill” has received from
the board members at The University of the Virgin Islands who felt the show
only portrays the negative aspects of college life?
JT: I honestly felt it was true, in a sense. Instead of the show touching the basis of Afro-
American education, its primary focus was the drama. I truly understand where the
University is coming from.
Ozzy: How has “College Hill” changed your life, from both a positive and
negative point of view?
JT: Positive wise, It allowed me to grow up and put the mirror on myself, it helped me see
people for who they really are. It was a big reality check for JayTee.
Negative, a lot of people criticized me and judged me everywhere. It was the hardest after
the show. I was known as the world's biggest cheater, but all in all, my family had my back.
Ozzy: It’s well known that you have musical aspirations. When did you first
realize becoming a rapper was something you wanted to pursue?
JT: I realized I wanted to become a rapper at the age 12. It was something I was good at. I
always had a God given talent for entertainment.
Ozzy: Which artists did you listen to growing up?
JT: MC Hammer, DMX, My Father, Jay-Z, LL Cool J, Whodini, basically everyone in hip-
hop.
Ozzy: In another interview, you mentioned that the producers made it appear as
if you were the only one cheating. Why do you think that is?
JT: They made it seem that way because I was the most honest about my relationship
status.
Ozzy: How did you decide on 5th Element as your musical moniker?
JT: 5th Element means the chosen one. There are four key elements of hip-hop:
Rapping, Dancing, Producing and Self Expression. All those elements combine into one,
5th Element.
Ozzy: Can you give us an update on where you stand currently in your music
career and what you hope to achieve in the near future?
JT: Currently I'm working with all star producer, "Po Rican" of Lite It Up Inc. We're working
on getting me signed to a major label. I'm also working on a mix tape for 2008, which will
be the best for the spring season. For the future, be prepared to see me shutting down
the music industry. LIU and Ryda 4 Life Records are coming for the 2008 and beyond.
Also, giving back to the community and helping rebuild the eastside of South Central Los
Angeles.
Ozzy: Describe some of the cultural clashes between the Californians and the
Islanders that we didn’t see on camera.
JT: The world basically saw all the clashes, on and off camera. You guys even caught
things we didn't think the camera captured.
Ozzy: If you had the choice of moving the show to another location, would you
and where?
JT: If I could relocate the show to another location, it would be in Los Angeles.
Ozzy: How does “College Hill” differ from other Reality TV shows out there?
JT: College Hill is different because it has a different type of flavor to it. It touches on
more of a personal level than the other shows.
Ozzy: If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be?
JT: I wouldn't change anything, because everything happens for a reason and it only
makes me stronger and wiser.
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