Jero’s first single – Umiyuki (海雪)

It’s obvious Victor Entertainment has high hopes for the Pittsburgh native. They got famous Japanese music composer Ryudo Uzaki to write the song and producer Yasushi Akimoto to pen the lyrics. The song Umiyuki is based on the small seaside town of Izumozaki (population 5,400) in Niigata Prefecture that faces the Sea of Japan. But Jero’s gave a funny reply when asked what image he had when singing the song. He said, “well, I’ve only seen the beaches in California so…”, which drew a roar of laughter.

Jero’s first single “Umiyuki” has just been released

Like many people I thought it was a joke too when my friend first told me about a black dude trying to make it as an enka singer in Japan. But after doing some digging and checking him out, I have to say Jero (ジェロ) is THE REAL DEAL!

In case you’re not familiar with the enka genre, it’s a type of Japanese folk music deeply rooted in history and nostalgia. The songs are generally melodic and sung in slower tempo. The closest comparison in terms of Western music would probably be country & western.

Jero made his major debut on Wednesday as the first and only black enka singer and has been going around Japan and appearing on TV shows to promote his first single “Umiyuki” since last month. At first glance his hip hop get up might throw you off (Jero feels the traditional kimono attire doesn’t suit him, plus he wants to create more of a visual impact) but believe me this kid can sing, and backs it up with well spoken Japanese and proper manner!

Jero incorporates hip hop dance moves in his performance too.  Performing at HMV in Shibuya (the mecca of Japanese fashion & culture) on 2/20.  He’s the first and only enka singer to make an appearance there!

Jero, whose real name is Jerome White Jr. hails from Pittsburgh and went to Japan almost 5 years ago. Although he doesn’t look it, he is 1/4 Japanese (from his grandmother on his mother’s side). He was close to his grandmother and she introduced him to the world of enka. Jero recalls that as a child he would make his grandmother happy whenever he sang enka for her. He made the decision to become an enka singer while he was on a short term study aboard program in Japan when he was in college.

Jero, the “Black Ship” of Japan’s traditional world of enka

His voice is very impressive, possesses clear pronunciation and belts out smooth melodies just like what a skilled enka singer would. If I played his music without telling you anything about him you’d definitely think he’s Japanese!