J. Rey Soul was pretty much destined for stardom. Auditioning for The Voice of the Philippines in 2013 as Jessica Reynoso, she quickly captivated the world with her powerful vocals and infectious personality.
By choosing Team Apl, as in apl.de.ap of the legendary Black Eyed Peas, Reynoso’s life was about to change…and fast. While Reynoso didn’t win The Voice, she came away with the knowledge that she indeed was meant to be a singer.
A few short years later, when Fergie departed The Black Eyed Peas to embark on her solo career, Jessica Reynoso (now going by J. Rey Soul) was inducted as the new female vocal powerhouse who would front the group.
She joined the iconic hip-hop, pop fusion group for their Masters of the Sun Vol. 1 album, and despite the big shoes she had to fill…surpassed all expectations of her predecessors, ushering in a new, bold era of the Peas.
It seemed only right that J. Rey Soul eventually became the forefront of the group. A sign that the Black Eyed Peas were not only welcoming change, but embracing a whole new era that would make them just as successful.
J. Rey Soul’s stardom has taken her to new realms. Since joining the group, she’s explored her own solo endeavors, toured the world, and made her mark in the fashion community.
In 2024, she’s released solo projects “HOLLA” and “It’s Saturday” while actively touring with the band. She has a knack for hard-hitting collaborations that complement her vocals while remaining catchy and refreshing.
As she looks ahead to a Las Vegas residency with the Black Eyed Peas, there isn’t much stopping J. Rey Soul. She has the world hooked: with her music, her fashion sense, her honesty, and her raw talent. You can listen to her music here:
We spoke with J. Rey Soul on her music career so far, working with the Peas, and more. Check it out below!
PD: As the current lead singer for the Black Eyed Peas on tour, can you tell fans how that all started for you? It all started when I joined The Voice Philippines and met Apl. Few years later I flew to LA to work on solo music and next thing I know I’m doing the female vocals with the Black Eyed Peas on their Masters of the Sun Vol. 1 album. From there, I started joining them on tour, and eventually, they invited me to be a part of the group. It’s been a wild and incredible journey since, grateful for the opportunity to share the stage with such legends. Every day, I’m learning and growing as an artist, and it’s an honor to continue the Peas legacy.
PD: While touring with the band, you also maintain your solo career. Has being in the band taught you anything about making your solo work? Absolutely! Touring with the Peas has taught me so much about creativity, discipline, and staying authentic to your message. They’ve always encouraged me to be myself and bring my own voice into the performances. That confidence has been key when working on my solo projects. I’ve learned how to connect with the audience on a deeper level, and that’s something I carry into my solo performances.
PD: What have been some of your favorite memories on tour so far? There are so many! One that stands out is when the band surprised me on stage with a Mariachi serenade for my birthday during a show in Mexico last year. The love from the Peas and the audience was so overwhelming—it was such a beautiful moment! Disneyland in Paris-And when we did the Safari tour in South Africa! Also, performing in front of fans in different countries and seeing how they connect to the music is always magical.
PD: You’ve recently released songs like “HOLLA” and “It’s Saturday,” which also have amazing collaborations on them. What do you look for in a collaborator when making music? I look for someone who shares the same passion and energy as me.. It’s important that we connect and their style compliments mine, while bringing their unique style to the Song.
PD: As a fashion icon as well, what is some of your most essential style advice? Thank you! I think the most important thing when it comes to style is confidence. Wear what makes you feel good, no matter the trends. Experiment, but stay true to your personality. Don’t be afraid to mix it up and have fun with it.
PD: Do you have any tour rituals or must-haves with such a busy schedule? Yes! Hydration and vocal rest are key. I also make sure to workout, meditate or find a quiet moment before each show to center myself. Being on the road can be intense.
PD: What’s next for you this year? This year is all about balancing my time between the Peas’ tour and my solo projects. We have the Vegas Residency that we’re really excited about and also I’m working on more new music, and there are a few exciting collaborations in the pipeline that I can’t wait to share. I’m also exploring more in the fashion space, so keep an eye out for that!
