Born in Columbus, Mississippi, John “J.R.” Harris traveled the world during his early years as the son of a United States Air Force serviceman. After living in various countries and experiencing a wide range of cultures, he graduated from high school in Sumter, South Carolina. These formative experiences shaped his global perspective and deep love for music — laying the foundation for what would become a remarkable 23-year career in the industry.

J.R.’s journey began as a songwriter and artist, eventually evolving into roles as a consultant, executive producer, and business manager. He co-wrote his first professional song, “Do It for You,” featured on Sammie’s 2000 debut album.

As Chief Operating Officer of A-Rex Productions / LA Reid Publishing, J.R. signed recording artist BlackBear (then known as Matt Musto) to the production company in 2010. BlackBear would go on to write hit records for artists including Justin Bieber, Mike Posner, Gucci Mane, and Billie Eilish, and become one of the most successful touring and independent recording artists of the past decade. During his tenure at A-Rex, J.R.’s writing team, RadioActive, penned songs for major acts including SHINee, Leona Lewis, and Tiffany Evans.

Later, as Chief Operating Officer of K-pop label Joombas / 153 Music Group, J.R. oversaw the production of global hits for BTS, EXO, Dean, SHINee, and NCT. In 2020, he discovered a then-unknown writer/producer duo, Jake and Zac. The pair quickly secured placements with EXO and soon after, Jake launched his solo career under the name JVKE with the single “Upside Down,” featuring Charlie Puth. JVKE has since emerged as one of pop music’s brightest rising stars.

J.R. has managed and mentored a host of Grammy Award-winning and nominated artists and producers, including J-Keyz, Soundz, Blaqsmurph, Keyz Bridgez, Jimi Cravity, Blair Taylor, V-Script, and Quintelli. Notably, he managed award-winning singer/songwriter Eric Bellinger and assembled the team behind Bellinger’s 2022 Grammy-nominated album New Light. J.R. also played a pivotal role in facilitating Bellinger’s 2022 publishing deal with Roc Nation.

Currently, J.R. is at the forefront of two major movements in independent music. He leads the business strategy for 2025’s breakout artist, 803Fresh, whose single “Boots on the Ground” has become a global sensation. He also manages King George, the reigning star of Southern Soul music, whose hits “Keep on Rollin” and “Too Long” were among the most streamed independent tracks of 2023 and 2024.

With a proven track record of discovering talent, shaping careers, and building global hits, J.R. Harris continues to leave an indelible mark on the music industry — one song, one artist, and one breakthrough at a time.