Did You Know New Orleans Rapper DJ Jimi Helped Pioneer Bounce Music With His 1992 Hit “Where They At”?
#NOLAZINE - Did you know that New Orleans rapper DJ Jimi was one of the early pioneers who helped introduce bounce music to the world with his 1992 hit “Where They At”? Long before bounce music became a worldwide phenomenon, Jimi “DJ Jimi” Payton was helping shape the sound that would eventually become one of New Orleans’ most recognizable contributions to hip-hop culture.
DJ Jimi began his musical journey spinning records and entertaining crowds at local New Orleans clubs, including Big Man’s. Known for his high-energy performances and ability to get audiences moving, he quickly developed a reputation as an entertainer who understood the city's unique musical culture.
In 1992, DJ Jimi signed with Isaac Bolden’s Soulin’ Records and released his breakout single, “Where They At.” The record became one of the earliest commercially released bounce songs, helping establish the genre's signature sound of infectious chants, energetic rhythms, and crowd participation. Despite challenges surrounding the song's explicit content, its distribution through Memphis-based Avenue Records helped bring New Orleans bounce music to a larger audience and onto the Billboard charts.
DJ Jimi continued building his legacy with his album It’s Jimi, which featured production contributions from Isaac Bolden, Dion “Devious” Norman, and Derrick “Mellow Fellow” Ordogne. His energetic live performances were just as memorable, sometimes featuring his mother and grandmother as backup dancers. His work alongside producer Leroy “DJ Precise” Edwards also connected him to rising local talent, including a young Juvenile, who would later become one of Louisiana's biggest rap stars.
DJ Jimi's story is also connected to legendary New Orleans neighborhood venues such as Newton's, where local artists gathered and helped develop the city's emerging hip-hop scene. These grassroots spaces played an important role in creating a musical movement that would eventually influence artists across the country.
More than three decades later, DJ Jimi's contributions remain an important part of New Orleans music history. His willingness to push boundaries and introduce a new sound helped lay the foundation for generations of bounce artists who followed.
Before bounce music became a global sound, pioneers like DJ Jimi were helping build it right in the streets and clubs of New Orleans.
Comments