Singer, songwriter and musician August 08 has died at age 31. No cause of death has been given. His label, Def Jam, shared a statement, reading, “The entire Def Jam family mourns the tragic loss of Ray ‘August 08’ Jacobs. A brilliant songwriter, an accomplished musician and a singular artist, August will remain in our memory as a beloved colleague and friend. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.”
The 88rising collective, of which he was formerly a part, wrote, “RIP August the kindest and most talented genius you will be missed beyond words. Thank you for being an amazing mentor and a steadfast friend through all these years. We are forever grateful to you and the joy you brought in every room, through every song. Your energy, guidance and care gave so much inspiration and strength that will be carried on always.”
Born Ray Jacobs in Los Angeles, August began making music as a teenager via his cousins, learning to use drum machines and Fruity Loops software. He co-wrote DJ Khaled‘s #1 2017 single “I’m the One” (ft Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper and Lil Wayne) and became part of 88rising in 2018. He contributed to tracks like “Midsummer Madness,” released Father, Happy Endings with an Asterisk, and Emotional CUH, along with other EPs and singles, and collaborated with Channel Tres, Diplo, Skrillex, Blood Pop, Yellow Claw, Toro y Moi, Boombox Cartel, GTA and Major Lazer, and more. In 2022 August signed with Allel Sound, Jhené Aiko’s Def Jam Recordings imprint, and released his third album, Seasick. In June of this year, he released “Bruises,” the first single from a new EP titled Pretend It’s OK that was due out later this summer.
Rest in peace, August.
