Jason Tom 譚志豪

MJ Movie Night

2009-11-12T18:06:00-10:00

Michael Jackson Movie Night Photo Recap:

I bought these IMAX movie tickets in advance on Wednesday, October 28th, and each came with a Michael Jackson "This Is It" movie concert tag. I caught the movie with 15 or so friends on Sunday, November 1st. My reaction: This Is Exc"It"ing.

I got to Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18 & IMAX early to wait for friends to arrive.

Testing out lighting on a 3-year-old cam.

I am the Michael Jackson ticket go-to man for tonight.

Lighting finally starting to work. Meet Tom!

>
Get your "This Is It" movie ticket right!

Now I'm glowing with Reiko.

This time it isn't the camera's fault, we're really that bright.

Yup Reiko and I are really really bad.

Movie tickets never tasted so good.

Is it really Michael Jackson?

Michael Jackson This Is It movie poster pose.

Then my friends found out it's actually the back of Michael Jackson that we're seeing on the poster. Michael Jackson wears his glove on his right hand.

Patrick Soler of Stillborn Skies, their CD release party is on Friday, November 27th at the Loft. Don't miss it... big announcement coming soon.

She told me her name was....

Billie Jean as she caused a scene.

We go wayyy back. Even before the ice age, but we haven't aged.

Immovable MJ.....

Not for long, because I've been hit by, I've been struck by... a smooth criminal.

Chop!

Reiko is working on a doodle, and I already know it's going to be cool.

It's Jabryann's birthday, and we're having a MJ party!

I met Ki (sp?) at the Aloha Music Project (AMP) "Monster Melodica" event that I emceed at UH Manoa.

Good friend Andy. He helped me glide through the roughest of rough times during the start of my career.

Doodle courtesy of Reiko (visuals) and I (checklist).

Christine and I... both big MJ fans.

This one with my eyes closed looks like I have a thought bubble with "WOMEN." Classic!

Only in theaters.

We don't have refreshments, but...

we got the one glove.

I ♥ you Michael Jackson! My friends wrote me that we should have another MJ movie night. Let's do it!

Jason Tom TEDxHNL

2009-11-04T11:16:00-10:00

This TEDTalks' video was filmed on February 2003 (though posted on October 2008), filmed more than a year before I started performing as a beatboxer. Now when I watch it again I find it to be inspiring hearing his snares, vocal turntable techniques, and style. He is quite original.

On May 14, 2009 my general manager sent me this video of James "AudioPoet" Burchfield. Prior to that I googled "beatbox poet" since I find myself mostly connected with the Hawaiʻi poetry scene (as opposed to the Hawaiʻi hip-hop scene) as a beatboxer, and that same vid popped up. My first impression was that it reminded me of a similar setting of a performance I did on February 9, 2009 as a guest artist for a UH Manoa speech class. I even had the same mic set up.

Reason I bring up about this TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) video in length is I received a call to "beatbox" at an invite only TEDxHonolulu (TEDxHNL) event at the Hawaiʻi Convention Center this Thursday, November 5. Once booking was confirmed I notified my general manager and booking agent to keep them in the loop. At that time I didn't make the connection with TEDTalks, TED, and TEDx until I noticed my general manager's enthusiastic reaction. Then it hit me why all of it seemed familiar from the get go. I looked up "beatbox" on TED, and sure enough that "AudioPoet" video popped up. I'm stoked.

Mahalo goes out to the organizers and sponsors of TEDxHNL. A big shout also goes out to Traci Toguchi.

Shaka Talk episode 5 LIVE stream

2009-10-15T23:00:00-10:00

In about one hour from now (after this blog have launched) you can catch the live stream of episode 5 of Shaka Talk featuring Jason Tom on Olelo.org.

Shaka Talk episode 5 commercial version 2

LIVE steams on Olelo.org and TV air dates on ‘Ōlelo 52 for Shaka Talk episode 5 featuring Jason Tom are:
Friday, October 16, 12:00AM (midnight)
Friday, October 23, 12:00AM (midnight)
Friday, October 30, 12:00AM (midnight)
Friday, November 06, 12:00AM (midnight)

Jason Tom on Shaka Talk episode 5

2009-10-13T21:09:00-10:00

This Thursday night the 5th episode of Shaka Talk will have its television premiere on ‘Ōlelo 52 at 11:59PM. I believe a YouTube commercial of it is in the making as I type.

The 5th episode will feature a half-hour interview I did with show host Diar "D.R." Rhea and co-host Edna McMan. It's my first full length video/TV interview, and it was recorded before I left for Los Angeles. The Shaka Talk interview was fun to do. I want to thank Doug Upp (I've known Doug ever since I started performing LIVE back in 2004) for inviting me and of course all of his past & future guests on the show. Shaka Talk is about the guests that it features. I also want to thank Ty for his awesome work as well.

I know there are those of you out there who don't own a television or have the ‘Ōlelo 52 channel. You can also stream it live on Olelo.org. A blog will launch 10 minutes before the show with the actual link of the live stream.

Christa Whittmier wrote an article for the Honolulu Weekly about Shaka Talk TV host and Shaka Zine publisher Doug Upp here:
http://honoluluweekly.com/calendar/social-lite/2009/10/slam/

Here's Doug Upp's Shaka Zine blog about episode 5:
http://shakazine.blogspot.com/2009/10/mahalo.html

TGIF MetroMix Cover Story

2009-10-02T11:27:00-10:00

Jason Tom's got beat

The young beatboxer is a walking, talking instrument
by Tracy Chan
Metromix

http://honolulu.metromix.com/music/article/jason-toms-got-beat/1504432/content
^----this version has an exclusive photo gallery and video performance from 2008.

He's got beat

Jason Tom captivating audiences with human beatbox skills
by Tracy Chan
Metromix

http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20091002/ENT/910020317/He%20s%20got%20beat
^---this version has some photos and an exclusive video shot for the Honolulu Advertiser in a freight elevator.

Jason Tom in LA

2009-09-11T11:14:00-10:00

I ♥ travel, and my first trip alone to Los Angeles was no exception. I feel that travel "expands" my life's experiences. The love I felt made me feel unquestionably the most famous beatboxer in Los Angeles and the ISA LA 09 concert. I totally didn't expect that coming from my first impression of LA when I was a teenager visiting as a tourist with family many years ago. I'm being considered to be featured in a future ISA concert, and was actually considered to be featured in this past ISA LA 09 concert. My fans and supporters have written to ISA to make that to possibly happen. I want to thank all of my supporters (old and new) for pushing that.

For the making of this PhotoBlog, I typically don't carry a camera with me (since I prefer to capture photos in my head as I often visualize pictures in my head more than anything), but I had to bring it with me for my LA trip so that I can share this trip with others. I tend to forget that I do have a digital camera (that I bought 3 years ago with my talent show prize money from beatboxing). If someone tells you that living a dream (vision) is impossible then they're pulling your leg.

My extra tickets for the JCPenney "SOLD-OUT" ISA LA 09 concert.

Posing for the self-timed picture before heading through security at the Honolulu airport.

My new friends that I met on my way to the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse for the ISA LA 09 concert. Though they couldn't join me for the show it was awesome meeting these fellow secret agents.

IS what? ISA!!!

Posing with Quest Crew fans (the purple gave it away). I gave my extra ISA tickets to their friends that couldn't get tickets due to how fast the ISA tickets sold out.

I gave her 2 of my extra ISA tickets, and I end up losing my inexpensive watch somewhere in Los Angeles after the concert. I also changed into a Verizon Wireless t-shirt. Thanks Verizon Wireless!

IS what? ISA!!!

ISA LA 09 volunteers passing out JCPenney surveys and notebooks.

This ISA LA 09 volunteer remembers me from ISA SF 09 (March). That's what's up! Gosh I think I look like the 2-time UK human beatbox champion Beardyman in this photo.

My new friends from UC Irvine, and now I'm sporting the Far East Movement Subcrew cap (worn backwards).

Concession stand is what's up!

Dominic “D-Trix” Sandoval of Quest Crew (I opened up for Quest Crew when they came to Hawaii for the Movement).

Jason Sender and I (someone mentioned I look like a cartoon character in this one, but they're indeed right since I am quite a cartoon character).

DJ Virman of the Far East Movement & Power 106 and I.

ISA LA 09 volunteers and I with the stage manager to my left. Now I'm sporting an ISA LA 09 t-shirt.

She was jamming on an ukulele.

Here I am now with my Far East Movement (FM) "2 is Better than 1" t-shirt with Kev Nish of FM.

5 is better than 1.

This 5 is better than 1 too. Wong Fu fans no doubt.

Here I am with Prohgress of FM.

Here I am with Jason Sender at the KT cafe. We have the same eyes it seem.

Kevjumba in the house!

Here I am chilling a bit with Victor of Quest Crew

Kai and I with J-Spliff of the Far East Movement in the background.

FM and I (from L-R) holding up the 3 fingers: Kev Nish, J-Spliff, Jason Tom, and Prohgress

Tom Ngo and Jason Tom

Picture with Far East Movement and 4C the Power (they remember me from ISA SF 09). Awesome crew!

Again, 2 is better than 1!

Back at my hotel with my friends from Texas. I damaged one of my vocal cords around this time after performing another request. I must've beatboxed 8,000,000 times plus during my short LA trip, but I loved every second of it.

The next day I'm still amped.

Can you tell that I'm excited to fly back to Honolulu?

My Texan friend and I tease that she looked high in this one.

My friend from Denmark Mick (I nicknamed him Mick Jagger). He referred me by my Chinese name (in Cantonese) which he remembered throughout my stay. Real cool dude.

My new friends from Zhejiang, China. We exchanged conversations in Mandarin Chinese.

Denmark is in the house!

New friends and fans from the hotel.

Rushed photo with my new Russian friend as I was about to head to the LAX airport.

Russia is in the house!

I'm back in Honolulu (self-timed photo)!

My welcome home entourage (my self-taken photo skill right here)!

Word of Life Emerge and ISA LA 09

2009-09-02T09:56:00-10:00

I performed for Emergeʻs "5 Minutes of Fame" event at the Word of Life Christian Center (WOLCC) this past Friday, and I had a good time. Of my 5 years of live beatbox performing experience I personally consider WOLCC to have the best live sound system and stage on the island.

I performed...

- Romans 12:2 (a scripture from the Holy Bible NIV)

- Billie Jean by Michael Jackson (with the dance intro, vocals, and the moonwalk)

- Listen Carefully by Jason Tom (one of my originals with vocals)

- then I capped it off with an idea I worked on that same morning just to experiment live for the first time as an outro

Since Iʻm currently very limited to my Internet access I might as well post up whatʻs coming up now on this blog...

1. Iʻll be filming for a half-hour local TV interview (that will air tentatively from mid October to mid November) for Oleloʻs Shaka Talk.

2. Then Iʻm flying out to Los Angeles for the "SOLD-OUT" ISA 09 LA Concert. The concert will feature Wong Fu Productions, Far East Movement, Quest Dance Crew, David Choi, Kina Grannis, Bruno Mars, GLP, Kevjumba with Tom Ngo and Lydia Paek hosting presented by JCPenney. I personally canʻt wait to see the Far East Movement LIVE again!

^--- In the video as well as the photo shown above Iʻm sporting a white "We Are the ABCrew" Subcrew cap representing Jin the MC. The photo is of MC Jin and I taken after the "SOLD-OUT" ISA SF 09 concert, and Jin was the headliner. It was an honor to meet Jin and also the Far East Movement (who produced Jinʻs ABC - his first Cantonese album)!

The Movement featuring ABDC Quest Crew on DVD

2009-08-12T01:52:00-10:00

*Scans of the July 12th event program for the Movement

Last month (July 12th) I opened up for America's Best Dance Crew (ABDC) Quest Crew for the Movement at the McKinley High School Auditorium.

I'm also an alumnus of McKinley High School, and I was featured in McKinley High School's student newspaper the Pinion (the final issue for the 2008-2009 school year) less than a month prior. It was fun performing in front of a crowd expecting to see a full on dance show, and as the crowd settled in I opened up the dance event as a solo human beat box act with a breakdown boogie down near the end.

The Movement is now available on DVD. In the DVD it features my performance opener, Hypersquad, Studio 808, Honolulu Dance Studio, Nixpac, and of course ABDC Quest Crew. Not only that, but it also features Quest Crew's dance workshop in Hawaii. If you're interested to order a copy contact me.

Artist spotlight in the 808 Scene Zine

2009-08-07T07:21:00-10:00

"If you attend open mics, local rock shows, First Thursdays, or First Fridays, then you probably know Jason Tom. He is Hawaii's premier human beat box whose unique talent has made him a recognizable icon in the local music and art scene" -the 808 Scene Zine

I am spotlighted in issue #41 of the 808 Scene Zine for August 2009, and I am interviewed by Ellice Island. Over 25 issues and more than two years ago I made my debut in this monthly local music and art magazine. Big thanks goes out to the 808 Scene Zine team for putting together a great issue.

The August 2009 edition of the 808 Scene Zine features the Scene Choice Award Winners, Millennium, Tattoos of Amy Wagner, Amy on A&E's Tattoo Highway, the Loft, Breaking of the Waves, Jason Tom, Shoot the Messenger, Rip the Spot, Doris Duke Theater, Department of Public Works, and much much more!

Be sure to grab a copy!

Where to pick up:
Ala Moana Mall:
Pipeline Surf Shop
Blue Hawaii Surf
Hot Topic
Sera's Surf Shop
T&C Surf
Sam Goody

Ward Center:
Digg Lifestyles
In4mation (upstairs and downstairs)
Island Guitars
Second Skin
The Liquor Collection
EcoSystems
Borders
Kicks/HI
Mocha Java Cafe entrance

Kahala:
Coffee Talk
Goodguys Music & Sound

Waikiki:
Black Flys (Intl Marketplace)
Tattoolicious
Smokey's

University:
Glazer's Cafe
Cafe 2600
Toogruvz
Pipeline Smoke Shop
Stylus
Well Bento
Anna Bannana's

Makiki:
Sure Shot Cafe
Easy Music Center

Town/Chinatown:
Pipeline Cafe
The Arts at Mark's Garage
Black Cat Tattoo Studios
Laughtrack Theatre
Mercury Bar
39Hotel
The Loft
Ong King Arts Center
Chinatown Boardroom
The Doris Duke Theatre

Pearlridge Mall Uptown:
Razor Concepts
Prototype
Local Motion
T&C Surf
Hatsby

Aiea:
Hawaiian Holy Smokes
Easy Music Center
Jelly's
Diamond Head Video

Windward Mall:
Hot Topic
No Fear Hawaii
Local Motion

Kaneohe:
808 Tattoo

Kailua:
Coconut Grove Music
Hungry Ear Music
Morning Brew
808 Skate
Kalapawai Market

Jason Tom opens for Quest Crew

2009-06-18T18:39:00-10:00

Jason Tom will open for The Movement featuring America's Best Dance Crew Season 3 Winners Quest Crew presented by Mobi PCS, Burgers on the Edge, Island Fire Productions, Aiea Bowl, & Power 104.3.

Also performing: Hypersquad, Nixpac, Studio 808, and Honolulu Dance Studio

It's $30 per ticket, for tickets contact Jason Tom or e-mail contact@jasontom.com. Tickets are also available at all dance studios.

Portion of all ticket sales will be donated back to the dance studios.

Hawaii human beatbox Jason Tom at Corned Beef Musubi Eating Contest

2009-06-10T13:16:00-10:00

Hawaii beat box guy at musubi eating contest

I'm not sure who've uploaded this video through mobile phone on Flickr, but thanks! This video features a short clip from my March 14th performance for the L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Keeaumoku (Wal-Mart location) Corned Beef Musubi Eating Contest. I've bumped into this video randomly about an hour ago. On a related note, I've had folks from several of my recent live shows letting me know that they've seen me on for a 10-15 minute OC16 television spot which also featured this live performance. One dude recited word for word of what I've said on camera from my post-performance interview. I've been unable to view the television spot since I don't subscribe to OC16, and I rarely if ever watch TV. This wasn't the first time that I've landed on local television waves for beatboxing, but I have yet to catch 'em. I don't mind though as I'm continually on a move.

Jason Tom featured interview with McKinley High School's Student Newspaper "The Pinion"

2009-06-05T00:00:00-10:00

Today the McKinley High School Student Newspaper "The Pinion" featured an interview with Jason Tom. Special thanks goes out to the Pinion staff/advisors, Minna Jun, and McKinley High School. This is the online version of that interview.

Image version (click to enlarge)

Text version

Beat boxing toward fame

Honoring a McKinley alum

By Minna Jun

Jason Tom, a graduate of McKinley High School class of '01, is known as the "Human Beat Box." Performing as a professional beat boxer, he first started off his education at KCC and transferred to many places.

Tell me about yourself.
Over the years I've attended Kapiolani Community College (KCC), Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU), Honolulu Community College (HCC), and Belmont University's Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business.

Tell me more about the HCC MELE (Music & Entertainment Learning Experience) program you are in.
During my graduating semester at KCC, HCC offered the MELE program for the first time. My KCC counselor emailed me an article on the MELE program and I registered for the "Survey of the Music Business" course immediately. It "spoke" to me. No other program like this is offered in Hawaii.

What made you want to become a beat boxer?
It was during my freshmen year at McKinley High School when my classmate took notice to what I did. I was quietly beat boxing to myself. He thought that I had hidden a radio.

In what ways did your education contribute to your career?
It helped me reaffirm my love for travel and to be a lifelong student as a live beat boxer. I was aspired by math until music tugged at my heart.

Who had the most significant impact in choosing your career?
My heart. I believe in inspiring others to follow his or her goals and aspirations. Following one's dream is something not everyone dares to do, because it involves a lot of risks. I believe in going forth with your dream rather than putting it aside for the next 20 years.

Friday nights with Jason Tom

2009-03-09T22:57:00-10:00

This Friday, March 13th from 6-8pm I will be performing live at the L&L Hawaiian Barbecue ʻIwilei location (across Costco near Dole Cannery and Honolulu Community College) on 801 Dillingham Blvd. Ste. 1-E. I will also be joined by a teen group from Mililani High School TreeTop Romantics and other surprise guests.

Flyers courtesy of Banana Grafeeks

Then I'll be in San Francisco for the 2009 ISA (International Secret Agents) concert (http://www.wongfuproductions.com/isa) held at the Palace of Fine Arts one week later.

Here is the ISA 2009 concert line up:
* Jin the MC (platinum selling artist in Hong Kong for ABC JIN, BET Freestyle Champ)
* Far East Movement (GIRLS ON THE DANCE FLOOR, Radio Play nationwide)
* Wong Fu Productions (YELLOW FEVER, NICE GUY, UP IN DA CLUB)
* Passion (Soul, Acoustic)
* Pau Dateh (Hip Hop Violinist)
* Jessi Malay (Warner Bros Records)
* ABDC DANCE SET (featuring Della and Meme of A.S.I.I.D., Glenda of Fanny Pak and DJ Virman of FM and ABDC Tour)
* DJ ROMEO (Wild 94.9 San Francisco)

Other than all that a big shout out goes to Gravy All Over, a reggae/Hawaiian band I opened for this past Second Sundays Showcase at Tropics Café Bar and Lounge brought to us by Phoenix Entertainment Hawaiʻi, and of course a shout out to the great audience/crowd. Also headlining that night were Pimpbot and My Sleep Therapy.

2009 Chinese New Year Festival at Chinatown Cultural Plaza

2009-01-12T17:58:00-10:00

Last Friday and Saturday United Chinese Coalition hosted its first week of the 2009 Chinese New Year Festival at the Chinatown Cultural Plaza. I performed two sets Friday night. My special guest Joel Spiral joined me for my second set performance to share the Chinese legend of the Ox.

This week Friday and Saturday will be the second week of the 2009 Chinese New Year Festival. I'm expected to perform on both nights. Joel Spiral will join me again for Friday, and I am working to bring another surprise guest. Entertainment at the Chinatown Cultural Plaza goes from 6pm to 10pm.

Here are photos from last Friday's event:

2008 Chinese New Year Festival

Jason Tom interview with Ningin

2008-12-25T00:00:00-10:00

An in depth Jason Tom interview with Asian Media Community Ningin.

Image version (click to enlarge)

Hawaii Sensation Jason Tom, beat boxer

December 24, 2008 08:12 PM | by Maimounah Masudi

Over the years I have seen all kinds of musical talents from different parts of the country and the world. I love the ones that bring something new or something old with a fresh twist on it, not straying too much from the origin. One day I came across a guy on a website that was a music artist. He was very different from the average music artists in that he performed without any background music. The music was actually coming from within him. He himself was actually a musical instrument. I was amazed at his talent. He has fresh sounds, you can see the energy popping off of him, and he is fierce. His name is Jason Tom, a beat boxer from Honolulu, Hawai’i. I asked him if I could feature him in one of my blogs on this site. He was very shy and he agreed. Here follows his story.

Maimounah: Please tell me about yourself
Jason: My name is Jason Tom. I was born and raised on the island of O’ahu in Honolulu, Hawai’i, USA. I was also raised by my aunt, uncle, and first cousins in Northern California prior to pre-school before going back to live in Hawaii with my parents and older sister. I’ve also lived in Beijing, China, and Northern California during my college years. I’m fourth generation Chinese American on my father’s side, but have been raised like a second generation Asian American since my parents grew up in Asia prior to living in America. I’m an alumni of President William McKinley High School in Honolulu, Beijing Foreign Studies University-BFSU in Beijing, and University of Hawaii’s Kapi’olani Communty College-KCC. I currently attend University of Hawaii’s Honolulu Community College-HCC through the MELE (Music and Entertainment Learning Experience) program that is partnered up with Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business in Nashville, Tennessee as a Music Business major.

Maimounah: What made you decide to become a professional beat boxer?
Jason: When I was four years old I would record myself on audio cassette as a hobby. I’d find myself beat boxing, interpreting my own improvisational lyrics, scatting, singing the rhythm, and melody of Michael Jackson’s Bad song from the album of the same title. Back then I didn’t own records of songs I liked listening to, so I metaphysically became the songs to record my own version of them. In my mind I produced the music exactly the way I heard it in my head of the actual records, but was disappointed when I heard it on playback due to the technology back then. Now when I listen to it I hear a rawness of creativity that flowed through me that wasn’t taught to me. I am self-taught in the art of the human beat box without the knowledge that it is a gift. It wasn’t until my freshman year of high school that former classmate Jess Navarrete Jr., who I had known since elementary school, made me aware that it is a gift with his response, “Is that a radio? Oh, that’s you that sounds really cool!” then I’ve discovered in 2003 that I could actually explore the human beat box through a live performance setting after I’ve witnessed how Asian American Elaine Chao rocked the crowd during her live beat box performance on the TV program “Showtime at the Apollo.” The rest is history from late 2004 and on. It was and still is unusual to see the beat box performed live in Hawaii, but I’m helping to change that.

Maimounah: How do you approach beat boxing as an aspiring songwriter and composer?
Jason: I like to create original beat box songs from scratch, and I often improvise with beats live on stage. So when I “freestyle” live on stage I don’t remember what I’ve just done once I get off stage, because most of the time I leave it right then, and there. When I create an original composed song from scratch to memorize, I mess around with lyrics and or the beat to come up with a message I’d like to portray. Rarely do I throw in a cover of a known song. There are beat boxers who may throw in five or more covers of songs they didn’t originally create into their live routines, but at most I’ll throw in maybe one or two. One of them that I’m known to throw in is Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean, and it’s a song I know the origin of. I know for the most part how it was written by Michael Jackson, and the choreographed dance that syncs with it. I’ve also studied the actual composition of Billie Jean by listening to the actual record rather than listen to other beat boxers who have beat box-covered the song. My Billie Jean beat box cover for instance has the actual bars, and transitions that the actual song on the record has with my personal beat box touch. My philosophy is that as beat boxers we’re already “imitators of music,” so we shouldn’t look to imitate other “imitators of music” when we should strive to create something from actual music sources such as live instruments, live performances, and records to dig deeper to become “creators of music” or “the music.” I also see myself as an entertainer, so I like to incorporate elements of movement, energy, and stage presence into a performance. For example, on occasion I incorporate Michael Jackson’s moonwalk (this dance move is accurately called “the backslide”) while I beat box simultaneously at the same time.

Maimounah: What are some of the difficulties that you face as an aspiring songwriter/composer/beat boxer?
Jason: My first difficulty was getting used to hearing myself on a PA system, and also getting comfortable beat boxing onto a mic. It was a different animal for me. I realize now how important having monitors are, because I’ve done performances where there weren’t monitors, and not having monitors from my point of hearing sounded like my sounds were getting cut off when they weren’t. Thus I felt distant from my sounds, and felt uncomfortable as a performer with the absence of monitors. I still encounter issues with sound systems and acoustics of venues to this day to truly cater what i do. I’ve even blown out dynamic microphones (the most durable of microphones) before due to my high SPL (sound pressure level). I have just under four years of experience performing, very young for my career, and the performing for me continues to be fresh. I have to get out of my own comfort zone to experiment with new concepts, and ideas. If the concepts work, great! If the concepts don’t work then back to the drawing board I go.

Maimounah: What is the origin of beat boxing?
Jason: From what I understand there were drum machines, and it was during the early 80’s when hip hop was just starting up. There were emcees that wanted to rhyme with a beat to back them up, and in place of drum machines were people that imitated these drum machine sounds with their mouths when the situation called for it. This art from is known as the human beat box or beat boxing. The human beat box term was coined by Barry B. for beat box pioneer Doug E. Fresh who replicated the drum machine convincingly. American beat boxer Rahzel took it up another notch by singing while beat boxing simultaneously at the same time, and is one of the most influential beat boxers within the human beat box community. Thus the human beat box is a person who can replicate a drum machine utilizing his or her mouth, lips, tongue, etc.

Maimounah: Please elaborate on your involvement with the local communities in Hawai’i.
Jason: I got my start performing at Kapi’olani Community College talent shows, and left my mark as the only beat box act to enter the contest to date. I’ve placed in four consecutive KCC talent contests prior to graduating in fall of 2007 as a first generation college student, and have earned nearly a grand in prizes from those contest placings alone. Following that I became the December 2007 “no rules” poetry slam champ, and the $100 cash prize winner for First Thursdays Hawai’i Slam at the Hawaiian Hut. Prior to that I’ve placed 2nd in a “no rules” slam on August 2007, and debuted 3rd place in a regular rules poetry slam on October 2006 for First Thursdays Hawai’i Slam. I was also in the cast of Ong King Art Center’s 2007 theater production known as Hip-Hopalyse, where I played a beat boxer named Dewm that didn’t speak a word, but used the beat box with dance to back up emcees Do ( played by iNTREPiD) and Dune (played by Harumi the Hymn).

Early 2008 I’ve also worked with the United Chinese Coalition to celebrate the Chinese New Year Festival at the Chinatown Cultural Plaza, and performed beat box routines in the Chinese language (in Cantonese and Mandarin) that I’ve created specifically for the event to inspire the younger generation of Hawai’i. I’ve also been invited to guest speak and perform at schools and churches across the island. I’ve done beat box events and performances at Central Middle School, Central Union Church, Chinese New Year Celebration at the Chinatown Cultural Plaza, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, First Thursdays Hawai’i Slam at the Hawaiian Hut, ARTafterDARK at the Honolulu Academy of Arts, MELE events at Honolulu Community College, Kapi’olani Community College, McKinley High School, New Hope Kailua, First Fridays at the Ong King Art Center, Rumfire Waikiki, Word of Life Academy, Emerge at the Word of Life Christian Center, and more. I’ve also connected with local acts such as Pierre Grill, Makana, Jake Shimabukuro, Hawaiian Ryan, Bridget Gray, Andy Tran, DJ Azia (tours with Tempo Valley), PhoeBus, DJ Don, Pimpbot, iNTREPiD, Harumi the Hymn, the Deadbeats, Taimane Gardner, LoveChile, Kapena, Jon Sands, eightOeight, Tru Rebels, and more.

Maimounah: What are your future plans?
Jason: On October 2008 I won 1st place at the World of Life Emerge Talent Show to be eligible for the grand finale on January 2009. Since then I’m attending church regularly due to recent signs that God have shown me, and I continue to cherish the gifts He has blessed me with. I used to not put Him first in my life, but it’s long overdue that I do. Also I hope that jasontom.com continues to strive in ways to connect me with my following. I also want to complete my Music Business science degree through the MELE program, and if all goes well, I plan to transfer over to Belmont University, and do internships in Los Angeles, New York, or Nashville. I’d also like to get more into songwriting, continue to compose original beat box songs, and stay consistent with what I do in life. I also want to continue working with the local community, and continue to support the local music, poetry, entertainment, and art scene.

Jason Tom Word of Life performance

2008-12-01T17:30:00-10:00

I was browsing the web, and found out only today that this is uploaded:

That's me performing at the Word of Life talent contest on October 2008, and following this performance I held a beatbox workshop at Word of Life Academy. I was invited to Word of Life for these specific events by different parties, and knew of the beatbox workshop first. This video showcases my first time at Word of Life, and I now consider Word of Life my home church. Praise the Lord!

Jason Tom's Online Birthday Party!

2008-11-21T10:50:00-10:00

Welcome to my online birthday party!

Jason Tom Update

2008-11-19T16:14:00-10:00

Lately I visited several home recording studios working with local underground artists and producers, co-produced this past Friday's MELE showcase with the MELE club, and more. At the showcase I was featured in three acts, and co-produced an additional act. Craig Garcia emceed the event with Will on the sound and lights. Also featured were DJ G, The Freaki Tiki Experience (Will & Alastar), Clarence, Kelsey & Jowyn, Harold Villiarimo, PhoeBus, Faioso, Kalei Gamiao, Gino, Eric Lagrimas, Tak Tsui, John Tussey, R£AL, and more. A talented bunch. Behind-the-scenes I worked with the MELE promotion for the Ukulele Guild Exhibition and Conference at McKinley High School scheduled for November 21st to 23rd (click for online flyer). Mahalo MELE!

On another note I'm also reading God's word on a daily basis to build a growing relationship with Jesus Christ in my life. 'Til next time I blog, hope life is treating you well, and don't forget to give your neighbors a shout out!

Makana and Jason Tom: amazing turnout!

2008-09-14T09:05:00-10:00

This past Art After Dark "Hawai`i Ink" event on August 29th, 2008 at the Honolulu Academy of Arts featured Hawaiian slack key guitar master Makana. This event had an amazing turnout, especially those who came to see Makana, and I rock it out. People stood, and even sat on beach mats layering the wet grass from earlier poured rain just to experience the evening with us on that Central Court stage. MELE were also on hand to document my live moment with Makana as part of a reality series project starring MELE students.

Supporters came out in the bunches, and called out to me as I stood waiting in the wings ready to perform. That night also featured a stellar line up of Manu, The Resophonics, Kealoha, Indai, Halau Mohala `Ilima, and DJ Hi-Lo.

RumFire Waikiki with Makana: our live rehearsal

Prior to August 2008's Art After Dark I performed with Makana, Lopaka, and Lono at RumFire in the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel two weeks in a row in preperation for this big event, and that generated a RumFire buzz. It was magic!

Honolulu Academy of Arts with Makana: our live set
After performing my set with Makana for Art After Dark, my supporters swarmed me with love off stage. My former math instructor Mark (who was in a music band at one point) said, "it was awesome!" He loved how I faded out in parts, and came back aggressively to generate great dynamics to the overall performance. Another campus friend Mario said that he sees an "up and coming" in me as an entertainer. Lani said that she was glad to see her two of her favorite performers live on stage together. Ellice Island's camera got its batterly life zapped out ofrom the performance. Oh yeah, and to top it off it was also Michael Jackson's 50th birthday!

Art After Dark at the Honolulu Academy of Arts: Makana and Jason Tom unite!!

2008-08-21T16:46:00-10:00

Upcoming event Art After Dark on August 29th at the Honolulu Academy of Arts from 6:00PM to 9:00PM. It's free to academy members (I'm not a member), $10 to non-members (refunded if you join that night). I encourage all of my supporters who has or has never seen me perform live before to come. Yes I will perform as a featured guest, but there's more!

The theme is "Hawaii Ink" for Art After Dark, and the headline act is Hawaiian slack key guitar master Makana. I will be joining Makana, and his band for this not to be missed concert. Makana was impressed by my most recent First Thursdays Hawaiʻi Slam performance at the Hawaiian Hut with Hawaiian Ryan, and DJ Azia (tours with Tempo Valley).

My friend who recently came back to Hawaiʻi from New York for a short stay said that it was the best beatbox performance he had ever seen with such a strong community feel. The judges that night scored my performance with a 9.0 as its lowest as well as its most consistent score. I was prepared to do a complete solo that night with stuff saved that would've potentially tore the hut up to no return. Fellow beatboxer Evan couldn't show up due to other reasons. I didn't get to do my complete solo that night, but just jamming with Hawaiian Ryan that night took the cake.

I was inspired early on in my beatbox career in late 2004 by how Hawaiian Ryan, Kealoha, and more would literally tear the house entirely down when First Thursdays Hawaiʻi Slam was at Studio1 (now closed down) in Chinatown. Back then I was blown away by live poetry slam performances at a level I never knew existed before. I often feel that First Thursdays Hawaiʻi Slam hasn't been the same since it moved to the bigger venue Hawaiian Hut with its different atmosphere (a given), but there are still the high moments I look forward to that often have me coming back month after month.

Opps I went off on a tangent. Anyway, Makana, and I rehearsed together yesterday for next Friday's Art After Dark event. All I gotta say is that we're ready to rock it. I hope to see you there!