DJ Jazzy Jeff

by Andy KellmanDJ Jazzy Jeff's accomplishments extend well beyond his status as one-half of a multi-platinum rap duo. Regarded as a pioneering turntable tactician for his well-honed skills and for his development of the transformer scratch, the Philadelphian (born Jeff Townes) founded a production house -- called A Touch of Jazz -- a few years into his alliance with Will Smith as DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince. Since parting ways with his partner, the DJ has worked on records by KRS-One, Kenny Lattimore, Jill Scott, J-Live, and King Britt's Sylk 130. In 2002, he put together a stylistically diverse solo album for BBE; Magnificent, like a Quincy Jones record, found Jeff supported by a number of co-stars, most of whom were also Philadelphians. Two years later, his first ever DJ mix Hip Hop Forever, Vol. 2 was released. The Return of the Magnificent, featuring another all-star support cast, came out in 2007.