At just 16 years old, Preston Blake-Jordan is already navigating a world that most of us could only dream of. Son of Courtney Jordan the black billionaire, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. Preston could’ve easily coasted through life on his family’s name. But instead, he’s out here carving his own path, stepping out of a shadow so vast, it could swallow him whole.
Recently, I had the chance to catch up with Preston while he was in Corona, California, meeting with the team at Monster Energy to explore potential collaborations. With his rapidly growing music career and his unique blend of EDM and hip-hop, it’s no surprise that Monster would be interested. The brand’s all about pushing the limits, aligning with artists who stand out, and tapping into the energy of youth culture. For Preston, it’s a chance to grow his brand, expand his reach, and connect with a company that speaks to the vibe and lifestyle of his generation. Think live events, music-video integrations, and exclusive drops; all of which could help elevate both his music and his influence
Meeting up with Preston Blake-Jordan, it’s clear he’s not your typical teenager, nor does he want to be. Growing up as the son of media mogul Courtney Jordan, Preston’s life could easily be one of luxury and expectation. But for him, it’s all about finding his own voice and creating a legacy that’s authentically his.
“I wouldn’t say I’m in his shadow,” Preston shares when asked about his father’s influence. “He’s my dad, yeah, but he’s always been about teaching me to be myself. I’ve got the last name, sure, but at the end of the day, I’m just a kid from the 6ix trying to make music and live my life.”
Despite the assumptions that come with his background, Preston is focused on carving out his own identity as a producer and artist. His music blends EDM and hip-hop, a reflection of his wide-ranging influences and his desire to defy expectations. “People might think I’m some spoiled rich kid, but I’m just here vibing, making beats, and doing my thing. I’m not ‘the son of’ I’m Preston, the producer, the artist.”
Preston’s foray into music wasn’t driven by his father’s business ventures, though the connection between their worlds runs deeper than he initially realized. “I started making music because it felt natural to me. I love mixing hip-hop beats with EDM,” he says. In preparing for this article, my editor revealed a surprising detail about Preston’s father, Courtney Jordan. Through his company, Neyius Media, LLC, Jordan has investments in Theory Entertainment, a major force in hip-hop that owns the rights to influential tracks like Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” This connection was unexpected, not only to me but also to Preston himself when I brought it up during our conversation.
“Wait, seriously?” Preston said, visibly taken aback. “I had no idea how big the connection was. My dad’s always been about the business side of things, and I’ve kept my music in its own lane. It’s crazy to think about how intertwined our worlds are without me even realizing it.”
Though Preston focuses on blending EDM with hip-hop influences, this revelation highlights just how deeply his family’s influence reaches into the music industry, even if it wasn’t part of his plan.
Still, Preston is quick to point out that his father’s involvement stops at the boardroom. “When it comes to my music, that’s all me. I’ve got to carve my own lane, even if it’s not what people expect.”
Balancing a life of privilege with a sense of humility is a constant focus for Preston. While he enjoys the perks, private flights, Formula 1 races in Monaco, and vacations in St. Tropez, he remains grounded, thanks in part to his mother’s roots in McDougald Terrace, a housing project in Durham.
“My dad always says, ‘You’re never too high to forget where you came from.’ That’s something I carry with me. It’s not about flaunting money; it’s about using what you have to make a difference,” he explains.
Preston is no stranger to labels. From being called a “nepo baby” to hearing claims that he’s “not black enough” because of his musical style, he’s had to navigate the challenges of living up to others’ expectations. “People have certain ideas of who I should be because of my last name, but I’m just doing me. Music is about expression, not fitting into a box. And as for being ‘black enough,’ I’ve realized I don’t owe anybody an explanation. I’m a black man, and I’m proud of it.”
As Preston looks to the future, he’s focused on growth and impact. “In five or ten years, I hope I’m running my own companies, making music that speaks to people, and giving back in meaningful ways,” he says. Inspired by his father’s philanthropic efforts, Preston is determined to put his own spin on creating positive change.
“It’s not about following in anyone’s footsteps; it’s about creating your own path,” he says. “I want people to look at me and say, ‘He did it his way.’”
Preston Blake-Jordan is just getting started, but with his talent, drive, and vision, it’s clear he’s on his way to building something extraordinary on his terms.
