I still remember this time like it was yesterday. In my late 20’s with a wife and kids but not knowing where my life would end up career wise.
I used to listen to this pretty new station that played Hip Hop and R&B each day. I remember asking to myself, “Are there any minorities on this station?” I kind of suspected that the night DJ was black because he would always refer to Detroit being his hometown and he had flava when opening the mic.
One day as I was driving eastbound on 3300 South and 5th East, I noticed the U92 station vehicle going the opposite direction. I will never forget the one I saw driving this big suburban nodding his head to the sound of the station blasting. Bright yellow Los Angeles Lakers jersey, black skin color and the shiniest jheri curl on the planet!
The thought that went through my head was “WOW, that was hella G!” My view of U92 and the possibility that there were no brothers that worked for that station forever changed!
“Jason’s kindness and how humble he came across knocked out any hardcore Compton stereotype.”
The pilot of this SUV was none other than JASON “JJ Bones” TOLBERT. A husband, father, broadcast junkie, and one of the funniest people I had ever crossed paths with.
The impact on seeing him that day was such a drive for me to take a chance and try to become apart of this radio group. I saw a lot of me through this guy (minus the slim build and Laker gear, Go Jazz!). Jason’s kindness and how humble he came across knocked out any hardcore Compton stereotype. Simply the most friendliest guy that existed!
We joked as much together off air as we did on air. One of the most epic times I shared with him on air was during a “U92 Freedom Mix Weekend” on July 4th. Joking about bad fireworks and those little black snakes that flame up. He told me not to take a big wiff of the immense smoke from it! That had to have been one of the funniest convos ever! I need to find those air-check recordings and post it on my socials ASAP.
Jason, my man… I will really miss you and the personality that again, left an ever lasting impression on our lives. You have always told me to push forward and reach those goals. May your wonderful family and friends have comfort at this time. Michelle, you are such a strong woman. I know you will continue to raise the children you share with the legacy of a great man backing you spiritually.
Rest In Power my brother!
JASON “JJ Bones” TOLBERT 2/7/75 – 11/21/17
