Local legend Jay Kountree passed away early Tuesday morning; he was 38. Reports say he was killed during a situation involving a motor vehicle crash, which is fucking tragic. Not only was dude a phenomenal DJ—I'd seen a few sets in the city of Trenton where he'd be going ham with the '90s house—but he was just a good dude. Seeing him out meant a smiling face and someone around my age who was a father and would geek out on the same culture I'd geek out on.
What sucks is that Kountree, who was already a staple of the club scenes in Jersey and Philly, was making some dope material over the past year, dropping a four-track release WWJKD in January, followed up by a two-track remix EP, DEDICATED<3 in February.
There have been a number of tributes and thoughts about Kountree, especially throughout the Trenton and Philly scenes on Facebook. I could share a bunch of thoughts, but honestly, Trenton Social's Facebook post may sum things up:
"Kountree wasn’t just behind the decks," they said, "he was the energy, the heartbeat, the soundtrack of so many unforgettable nights here. Thank you for the years of music, laughter, and memories you gave everyone. Your presence filled this place with life, and your legacy will always echo through every beat that plays in this home you helped build. You will forever be missed, forever loved, and your music will forever live on."
Rest in peace, Jay Kountree.
