Meet Jonathan Ruff of Ohio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Ruff.

Hi Jonathan , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Jonathan “Severe Tha Boss” Ruff was born to parents John and Patricia Ruff on January 2, 1987. Originally hailing the Westside of Cleveland, it was there where he first began getting involved with music. Ruff lived in Cleveland for thirteen years, and then moved to West Michigan neighboring the city of Grand Rapids. Beginning as a rapper, Ruff began to dive in to songwriting and the art of creating a project.
Since a young man, he was a big dreamer. The youngster was catapulted into a new world of self-expression writing his first rhyme at eleven years of age. Next, he then learned the art of freestyling and began participating in battles at the age of 12. Being known for his aggressive delivery, complex wordplay, and spirited live performances, the young rapper achieved the name Severe. He cleverly created an acronym for the name S.E.V.E.R.E. which stands for “showing everlasting versatility every rhyme expressed.” Ruff was also a member a rap trio “IRS Da Squad.” Both with the group, as well as solo, Ruff released many projects. His consistency eventually led to him achieving regional success as an artist. His perfectionism and creativity led him to venturing into the world of consulting other musicians as well as artist and repertoire. Severe is still dropping consistent projects and touring. Stay tuned to follow his journey.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. Some of it was my own doing. Thinking I knew things that I didn’t. Or following advice from people who hadn’t been there before. I think one of my biggest issues was I never learned how to properly market my music until later on in my career. I believe I was living in a Fantasyland where somebody would hear my music and then “Boom” I’m an overnight celebrity, that’s just not realistic. Creating is only going to take you so far. However, the ultimate goal is to get it in front of eyes and ears for people to consume and potentially latch on to your music / brand.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a hip hop artist/songwriter. Known for my lyrical ability, stand out voice, and spirited live performances. I am most proud of the project that my brother and I put together. Real brothers EP. I believe the project is in instant classic. It’s an even crazier conversation that it’s being considered for a Grammy award. I believe what sets me apart from others is my ability to make relatable music without putting myself in a box. These days everybody can rap. Not everybody can rap well. And not everybody can make music that can connect with multiple audiences. I believe I’ve been able to make that happen for myself.

What makes you happy?
What makes me happy is my family. I have an amazingly supportive wife as well as three wonderful daughters. I would lay down my life for them without blinking. They make me happy because love me through all of my trials. I’m so proud of each of them in their own ways as well. It’s an amazing life to experience with them. Creating / performing music as well as being able to express myself through my music also brings me joy. Having that outlet to be able to express your true thoughts and feelings, I believe is necessary for survival. There are so many people who walk around depressed because they have no way of letting out their thoughts and feelings. They just bottle them. So then, when it does come out, it comes out destructively. I thank God everyday for giving me this gift as well as the talent to do what I do.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Severethaboss
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Severethabossmusic
• Twitter: https://X.com/severethaboss
• Youtube: https://YouTube.Com/severethaboss
• Soundcloud: https://Soundcloud.com/severethaboss