Tayyaba
R&B musician Ray Jacobs, who performed professionally under the moniker AUGUST 08 has been confirmed to be dead at the age of 31. The tragic news was announced by Def Jam Recordings, Jacobs’ label but no details about the cause of death have been released. 88Rising, as well as the partner of his close collaborator, Jhené Aiko, have posted about this passing on social media.
What did Def Jam Recordings say about AUGUST 08’s death?
The music industry has been mourning the loss of another yet another rising star ever since Def Jam Recordings released a statement confirming the passing of the singer. He debuted his first tracks, Funeral, Lately and Spiral in 2018, the same year that he joined 88Rising, as reported by i-D. In 2022. Jhené Aiko took note of his impressive talents, enlisting him to her joint venture Allel Sound, (which shares a partnership with Def Jam Recording) leading him to be signed under the company.
“The entire Def Jam family mourns the tragic loss of Ray ‘August 08’ Jacobs,” it was posted on Def Jam’s official Instagram account. “A brilliant songwriter, an accomplished musician and a singular artist, August will remain in our memory as a beloved colleague and friend. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.”
“August is an incredible writer, singer and artist whose music speaks to me on so many levels. As a fellow Los Angeles native, I am so proud of him. August’s talent, love for songwriting and hands on approach with his art is something I can relate to and have a great amount of respect for.”
Jhené Aiko about AUGUST 08 last year
A Rising Star Lost: Tributes For AUGUST 08
Hailing from South Los Angeles, Jacobs got his first exposure to music through his family. As he told Wonderland Magazine in November 2021, he became fascinated with it while visiting his cousin in Reako, who had a popular music software – now known as FL Studio – on his computer. The artist then ended up mentioning that he “spent the summer at his house making beats for fun and I got hooked.” Most recently, he was seen supporting Aiko at her Aug 5 concert, and while the star herself hasn’t made any comment on the situation, her partner posted an Instagram Story mourning the singer’s loss which was captioned: “can’t believe this.” AUGUST 08’s family and friends also took to social media to share their thoughts on the late musician.
Another tribute to Ray was penned by 88Rising, the star’s former management company prior to his shift towards Def Jam Recordings, on Instagram. “It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Ray Jacobs, also known as AUGUST 08. RIP August the kindest and most talented genius you will be missed beyond words,” the heartfelt post read. “Thank you for being an amazing mentor and a steadfast friend through all these years. We are forever grateful to you and the joy you brought in every room, through every song. Your energy, guidance and care gave so much inspiration and strength that will be carried on always.”