Tlale Makhene

Breaking barriers: Esjay Jones and the rise of women in music production

In an industry often dominated by male voices, Esjay Jones is a powerful force reshaping the landscape of music production. A Grammy-featured record producer, songwriter and entrepreneur, Jones has spent over two decades carving her niche in a sector where women are typically underrepresented. Her impressive resume includes collaborations with acclaimed artists like Dave Navarro, Sean Kingston and Jeffree Star, a testament to her innovative approach to music-making. Born in Durban, her early exposure to music came from her time spent in church, where she learned to play a wide array of instruments. She first tasted success with her band, Stealing Love Jones, achieving chart-topping hits and experiencing both the thrills and challenges of the music industry.