John Reuben

“Professional rapper” John Reuben has always been known as somewhat of a character. His rhymes are peppered with witty one-liners that reflect his personality and have garnered the emcee with a reputation for fusing style and spirit. His albums are blends of pop-savvy hip-hop flavors that use Reuben’s sharp personality to display a unique ear for beats and rhymes as well as a talent for masterfully crafted songs.

Rueben’s passion for hip-hop music started at a young age when inner-city influence first entered his life. His family lived on the property of Outreached for Youth, a church -centered program in Columbus, Ohio. The program was started by a former Brooklyn gang-member and served as an outreach for urban teens. Reuben’s friends introduced him to the hip-hop scene, and Reuben became a regular at downtown record stores, rap concerts and open mic nights.

What started off as just a hobby soon became a passion. At 16, Reuben dropped out of school and decided to pursue a career in the music business. After taking out a loan, Reuben invested in recording gear and self-released a collection of songs. He sold the EP, Monuments, in local music stores and eventually, the word got out. With the help of a few industry connections, his CD caught the ear executives at Gotee Records. The label signed Reuben whose major label debut, Are We There Yet?, was a critical and commercial success.

Reuben followed-up the success of Are We There Yet?, with the progressive Hindsight in 2002 and Professional Rapper 2003. His albums, which blend his deeply-rooted passion for hip-hop and his satirically-laced rhymes, have made him a favorite among fans around the world. With a relentless touring schedule, which has brought him to crowds throughout the Americas, Europe and even India, Reuben’s unique tunes have become hip-hop hits.

On his latest, The Boy vs. The Cynic, which is due out this summer, Reuben serves as the producer and promises further musical progression and the same witty style that has made him a star.

By Jesse Carey