Zoom In As We Get To Know South Korean Rapper-Singer-Entertainer Jessi

Watching Jessi’s first solo concert in Manila this 30 September 2022 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena? Here are some fast facts about this rapper, singer, and entertainer who continues to show us that hard work, breaking societal moulds, and being true to oneself will take you to places.

YOUNG DREAMER

South Korean-American Solo Artist Jessica Ho, more popularly known as Jessi (제시), was born with the name Ho Hyun Joo on December 17, 1988 in New York, USA.

She grew up in New Jersey, USA, with two older brothers, and then moved to South Korea when she was around 15. Even at such a young age, this outspoken soloist was already a go-getter. But it hasn’t been an easy journey for Jessi, who had difficulty getting used to Korean culture. 

STRONG WOMAN

Jessi went through a lot before reaching where she is now. Aside from being seen as different wherever she goes, she also moved to Korea alone. Jessi struggled to make ends meet, sleeping in saunas when she had no place to stay. 

Jessi was also a former SM trainee but eventually left the agency due to music style differences. In 2005, she debuted in a hip hop group, “Uptown”, but the group lasted only a year. Jessi went on a hiatus from music when she went back to America. 

In 2014, Jessi returned to Korea and debuted in a co-ed hip hop trio called “Lucky J” as a soloist under YMC Entertainment. In 2019, Jessi left her then agency to join P NATION as their first signed artist, leaving after three years with the label. 

RISING TO THE TOP

Jessi became a household name when she joined the first season of hip hop competition “Unpretty Rapstar. Although she only won 2nd place, Jessi became more known mainstream for her authenticity, strong performance, and charisma. 

In 2020, Jessi reached her highest-charting solo single “Nunu Nana”.  At present, Jessi has gained lots of fans for her music and her personality. Her digital single “Zoom” became a viral hit on Tiktok. The Jebbies love her for being a breath of fresh air from the K-Pop industry. 

HEART OF GOLD

Jessi may seem intimidating but is very well-loved by the industry. She is friends with a lot of Korean celebrities and idols, including Girls’ Generation Tiffany, Ailee, Hyorin, etc.  People love seeing her in reality and variety shows as she is not afraid to speak her mind, and her great sense of humor naturally shows!

Aside from her love for her fans, Jessi’s soft spot is her family. She says she will always be her daddy’s “little girl”. 

Jessi Concert 2022: Zoom in Manila is happening this September 30, 7pm, at the SM MOA Arena. Ticket prices with ticketing charges are as follows: VIP Wave 1/2/3 Standing – Php 10,300, VIP Standing / Seated – Php 9000, Lower Box – Php 7500, Upper Box – Php 4500, General Admission – Php 1700. Available at SM Tickets outlets and online at https://smtickets.com/events/view/11375.

All images courtesy of allkpop.com