KL Jay

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Kleber Geraldo Lelis Simões

Years active

1984

Genres

hip hop, rap

Instruments

turntables, sampler

Biography

Kleber Geraldo Lelis Simões, better known as KL Jay, was born in São Paulo on August 10, 1969. A Brazilian DJ and entrepreneur, he began his journey in music in 1984 by hosting dances in the northern zone of São Paulo alongside Edi Rock. Later, inspired by international hip-hop names and witnessing striking performances, he solidified his passion for the art of turntables and the creation of rhythmic beats.

In the late 1980s, together with Mano Brown, Ice Blue, and Edi Rock, he founded the influential rap group Racionais MC's, becoming responsible for producing the beats and musical foundations that accompany the lyrics. Alongside his work with the group, KL Jay expanded his presence in the Brazilian music scene by creating record labels such as 4P — in partnership with rapper Xis —, founding the Equilíbrio label, and producing DJ competitions that revealed various national talents.

With a multifaceted career, he has also worked as a television presenter on MTV, hosted nights at prominent nightclubs, and released highly relevant solo works, such as the album KL Jay na Batida - Vol III and the mixtape Rotação 33. Recognized for his contribution to the country's urban culture, he received the title of Doctor Honoris Causa from Unicamp in 2025, establishing himself as one of the fundamental pillars of Brazilian hip-hop.