Put You On | JayDon
The evolution from child actor to credible music artist is a treacherous path littered with failed attempts and forgotten careers. Yet, at just 18 years old, JayDon (formerly JD McCrary) is not only navigating this transition with grace but emerging as one of R&B's most promising young talents. With the backing of industry titans Usher and L.A. Reid, a viral hit under his belt and a debut EP that showcases genuine artistry, JayDon represents a refreshing blend of old-school soul and contemporary R&B sensibilities. Let me ‘Put You On’.
Highlights of his early career read like a Hollywood dream: guest spots on Disney Channel's K.C. Undercover at age eight, a collaboration with Childish Gambino on the track "Terrified" from the Grammy-nominated album Awaken, My Love! and show-stopping performances on Little Big Shots and The Ellen Show that went viral for all the right reasons.
But it was his 2019 portrayal of young Simba in Disney's live-action version of The Lion King that catapulted him into the mainstream spotlight. Voicing the beloved character and performing "I Just Can't Wait to Be King," JayDon demonstrated vocal maturity beyond his years while ensuring his performance would connect seamlessly with Donald Glover's adult Simba. That same year, he portrayed young Michael Jackson in BET's American Soul. These weren't just roles. They were masterclasses in studying legends.
Fast forward to February 2025, JayDon released "Lullaby" featuring artist Paradise, and the track quickly became his breakthrough moment. The music video, released in June, has garnered 1.6 million views on YouTube, while the track climbed to No. 13 on Billboard's Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart. On TikTok, "Lullaby" sparked countless covers, reactions, and finish-the-lyric challenges, with users from around the globe connecting to its soothing, romantic energy. The song's impact led to a high-profile remix released in December 2025, featuring not only Paradise but his mentor Usher. His admiration for the R&B superstar adds another layer to his story. Having studied Usher's career arc (from teen sensation to R&B icon), JayDon seems acutely aware of the long game required to sustain relevance in the music industry.
If you're invested in where R&B is headed, 18 year-old JayDon deserves your attention now. His combination of technical skill, industry backing, and genuine artistry suggests a career trajectory worth following closely.
New EP release: Me My Songs & I
