Joanna Noëlle Levesque, known globally as JoJo, is a name that resonates with an extraordinary journey through the ever-changing landscape of pop and R&B music. Born on December 20, 1990, her story isn’t just one of musical talent, but a captivating narrative of resilience, reinvention, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. From the tender age when she first captivated audiences, JoJo has continuously evolved, demonstrating a remarkable ability to navigate the highs and lows of the entertainment world with grace and grit. Her path has been a testament to the power of a true artist finding her voice and taking control of her destiny, shedding the ‘child star’ image for something far more profound and authentic.
Before she was a chart-topping sensation, JoJo was a prodigious talent honing her skills in the spotlight from an incredibly young age. Her early experiences laid the groundwork for a career that would challenge and define her, forcing her to fight for her artistic freedom and intellectual property in an industry notorious for its complexities. This remarkable trajectory showcases a young woman who not only achieved incredible success but also confronted significant obstacles head-on, emerging stronger and more creatively empowered. It’s a compelling tale that truly exemplifies what it means to grow up in the public eye while forging a distinct identity.
Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the initial chapters of JoJo’s incredible career, tracing her journey from a precocious talent to a seasoned artist. We’ll explore the pivotal moments that launched her into stardom, the challenges that tested her resolve, and the triumphant resurgence that cemented her status as a respected voice in music. Get ready to revisit the early hits, the impactful acting roles, and the crucial turning points that shaped the JoJo we know and love today, all while witnessing her powerful transformation.
1. **Childhood Beginnings: From Talent Shows to Discovery**Joanna Noëlle Levesque’s story begins in Brattleboro, Vermont, though she was raised primarily in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Her upbringing was steeped in music, with her father, Joel Maurice Levesque, enjoying singing as a hobby, and her mother, Diana Levesque, having been trained in musical theater and singing in a Catholic church choir. This early exposure to melody and performance clearly ignited a spark in young JoJo, who started singing at the astonishing age of two, effortlessly imitating everything from simple nursery rhymes to the complex stylings of R&B, jazz, and soul tunes. It was clear from these formative years that she possessed a natural gift, a voice destined for a bigger stage than family singalongs.
Her inherent talent quickly found its way into public view. In 1998, a very young JoJo appeared on the television show *Kids Say the Darndest Things: On the Road* in Boston with comedian Bill Cosby, where she even sang a song by music icon Cher. The following year, her vocal prowess was further showcased when she auditioned for *Destination Stardom*, delivering powerful renditions of Aretha Franklin’s classics, “Respect” and “Chain of Fools.” These early television appearances weren’t just cute child acts; they were clear demonstrations of a budding star with an undeniable vocal range and stage presence that belied her tender age.
By 2001, JoJo had already recorded a demo disc titled *Joanna Levesque*, featuring covers of soul and R&B songs, indicating a clear direction for her musical leanings. The year after, in 2002, she continued to make waves on television, performing on *Maury* during a “kids-with-talent” episode. It was in mid-2003, however, that a truly pivotal moment occurred. After competing on *America’s Most Talented Kid* (where she notably lost to Diana DeGarmo), she caught the attention of record producer Vincent Herbert. Herbert was so impressed by her performance that he personally reached out, asking her to audition for his record label, Blackground Records, setting the stage for her imminent rise to mainstream stardom.
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2. **Breakthrough Debut: “Leave (Get Out)” and Chart History**The year 2003 marked a significant turning point for JoJo. At just 12 years old, she officially signed with Blackground Records and its imprint Da Family Entertainment, embarking on the journey of recording her first album with a team of skilled producers. This monumental step quickly led to the release of her gold-certified debut single, “Leave (Get Out),” in 2004. The song wasn’t just a hit; it was a phenomenon that instantly launched her into the pop music stratosphere and etched her name into music history in a truly remarkable way.
Upon its release, “Leave (Get Out)” quickly soared to the top of the U.S. Billboard Mainstream Top 40 chart. This achievement made JoJo, at the incredible age of 13, “the youngest solo artist in history to top the chart,” a record that underscored her exceptional talent and immediate appeal. The track also peaked impressively at number 12 on the broader Billboard Hot 100, solidifying its status as a massive commercial success. Its impact was further recognized with a gold certification by the RIAA, making it clear that JoJo was not just a passing sensation but a genuine musical force.
Her self-titled debut album, *JoJo*, followed in 2004, building on the momentum of its lead single. The album was a resounding success, peaking at number four on the U.S. Billboard 200 and number ten on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, selling an impressive 95,000 copies in its first week alone. The album’s global reach was evident as it also reached the top forty of the UK Albums Chart and went on to be certified platinum by the RIAA, selling “over four million copies worldwide to date.” Further singles like the gold-selling “Baby It’s You,” featuring rapper Bow Wow, and “Not That Kinda Girl” continued to showcase her versatility. Her undeniable talent was quickly recognized with a nomination for Best New Artist at the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards, making her “the youngest MTV Video Music Award nominee,” and subsequent nominations at the Billboard Music Awards for Female New Artist of the Year and Mainstream Top 40 Single of the Year, further cementing her status as a teen prodigy.
3. **Sophomore Success: “The High Road” and Record-Breaking Achievements**Building on the incredible momentum of her debut, JoJo returned in 2006 with her highly anticipated second album, *The High Road*. This record was designed to further showcase her evolving artistry and vocal capabilities, featuring a stellar lineup of producers including Scott Storch, Swizz Beatz, J. R. Rotem, Corey Williams, Soulshock & Karlin, and Ryan Leslie. The album was met with mainly positive reviews from critics, who praised its polished production and JoJo’s continued vocal strength, demonstrating that her initial success was no fluke.
The album’s lead single, “Too Little Too Late,” released in the summer of 2006, proved to be another monumental hit and a record-breaker. The song achieved an astounding feat on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making “the biggest jump into the top three,” soaring from number 66 to number three in a single week. This impressive jump surpassed the previous record held by Mariah Carey’s 2001 single “Loverboy,” instantly putting JoJo in an elite category for chart performance. It was a clear signal that her appeal and talent were continuing to grow exponentially, captivating a wider audience with her mature sound.
*The High Road* debuted at an impressive number three on the Billboard 200, selling 108,000 units in its first week, a testament to her loyal and expanding fanbase. The album continued its commercial success, eventually being certified gold by the RIAA in December 2006, having sold “over three million copies worldwide.” While subsequent singles like “How to Touch a Girl” and “Anything” experienced moderate success, the album as a whole solidified JoJo’s place as a consistent hitmaker. By 2007, her overall career record sales had surpassed “seven million records worldwide,” including an impressive 2.1 million albums in the United States, cementing her status as a dominant force in pop and R&B for years to come.
4. **Silver Screen Star: JoJo’s Early Acting Roles**While her music career was soaring to new heights, JoJo wasn’t content to limit her talents to the recording studio and concert stage. She also embarked on a promising acting career, demonstrating a versatility that allowed her to shine on the big screen. In 2006, she made her on-screen feature film debut in the fantasy-comedy *Aquamarine*, where she starred alongside fellow young talents Emma Roberts and Sara Paxton, playing the role of Hailey. The film was a modest success, opening on March 3, 2006, at number five with $7.5 million, giving JoJo her first taste of cinematic success.
Her acting career quickly gained momentum, with her second major film, *R.V.*, a comedy starring the legendary Robin Williams, released shortly after on April 28, 2006. In *R.V.*, JoJo took on the role of Cassie Munro, showcasing her comedic timing and ability to hold her own alongside a seasoned performer. The film was a box office hit, opening at number one and grossing a significant $69.7 million, further proving her capability as a compelling presence in film. These early roles solidified her potential as a dual threat in the entertainment industry.
Beyond feature films, JoJo also made notable guest appearances on popular television shows, including *The Bernie Mac Show* in 2002, *American Dreams* in 2004, and *Romeo!* in 2006. An interesting tidbit from this period is that she was even “offered a role on the Disney Channel television series *Hannah Montana*” in 2005. However, in a move that highlighted her dedication to her primary passion, “she turned down the role in favor of developing her music career.” She later starred as Morgan Carter in the Lifetime Television film *True Confessions of a Hollywood Starlet* (2008) and appeared in *G.B.F.* (2013), continuing to diversify her acting portfolio while navigating the demanding world of music.
5. **The Industry Battle: Early Label Disputes and Mixtapes**Despite her immense talent and commercial success, JoJo’s career faced significant hurdles due to prolonged “record label disputes [that] delayed JoJo from commercially releasing her third studio album.” This period of her career, spanning from 2008 to 2013, was marked by frustration and a legal battle for her artistic freedom. It was a challenging time that saw her caught in what she described as ‘musical limbo,’ unable to release new material through conventional channels despite having a strong desire to share her evolving sound with her fans.
In August 2009, driven by the inability to release new music, JoJo bravely “filed a lawsuit against her record label Blackground Records and its imprint Da Family Entertainment.” Her claim was significant: she was suing them “for putting her in musical limbo,” and “reportedly sought $500,000 for damages and to be released from her contract.” This courageous step highlighted the often-unseen struggles artists face behind the scenes, particularly when their creative output is stifled by contractual disputes. It was a public stand for her right to create and release music.
During this protracted legal battle, JoJo found innovative ways to connect with her audience and release music independently. She released two critically acclaimed mixtapes: *Can’t Take That Away from Me* in 2010 and *Agápē* in 2012. The latter, *Agápē*, which means “unconditional love” in Greek, was released for free as a digital download on her 22nd birthday on December 20, 2012, a heartfelt gift to her patient fanbase. These mixtapes, along with singles like “Disaster” (2011) and “Demonstrate” (2012), showcased her maturing sound. Critics praised her for “not ‘jumping on the synthpop bandwagon'” with “Disaster,” though some noted a lack of significant progression after a five-year hiatus. The dispute ultimately centered on her 2004 contract, which she claimed “should have expired in 2011, as she was a minor when it was signed and minors cannot sign contracts that last more than seven years under New York State law.” This legal fight underscored her resilience and determination to regain control of her creative output.
6. **A New Chapter: Signing with Atlantic Records**After years of navigating a complex and often frustrating legal battle with Blackground Records, JoJo’s perseverance finally paid off. “In December 2013, both of JoJo’s and Blackground’s attorneys agreed to drop the case as both parties came to an agreement outside court.” This resolution marked the end of a long and arduous chapter, freeing her from the contractual constraints that had held her music career hostage. It was a moment of liberation, signaling the beginning of a fresh start for the talented artist.
The exciting news that fans had long awaited finally arrived on January 14, 2014, with the official announcement that “JoJo was released from her multi-year battle with the label and signed a new recording contract with Atlantic Records.” This move was a clear indication that a new era was dawning for JoJo, one where she could once again focus fully on her music and career development with the backing of a major label. The industry, and her loyal fans, were thrilled to see her back in action with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear path forward.
Under her new home at Atlantic, JoJo wasted no time in making her presence felt. On February 14, 2014, she released an extended play titled *#LoveJo*, featuring covers of three classic songs, all produced by Da Internz, as a heartfelt reintroduction to her artistry. Her official return was powerfully marked on August 20, 2015, when she released three singles simultaneously on the *III* extended play, which she cleverly referred to as a “tringle.” This innovative release served as a preview of her much-anticipated third studio album and showcased her creative ambition. To support this new music, JoJo embarked on her “first world tour,” the *I Am JoJo Tour*, in November 2015, demonstrating her global appeal and readiness to reconnect with her audience on a grand scale. She continued this creative output with *#LoveJo2* released in December 2015, solidifying her prolific new chapter with Atlantic.
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7. **’Mad Love’: Her Resilient Return to Albums**After a decade-long wait for a new full-length commercial album, JoJo delivered a powerful statement with the release of *Mad Love* on October 14, 2016, a poignant “ten years following the release of The High Road.” This album wasn’t just a collection of songs; it was a testament to her enduring passion for music and a celebration of her newfound creative freedom under Atlantic Records. The anticipation from fans was palpable, and JoJo delivered an album that was both deeply personal and commercially resonant, marking a significant milestone in her career.
*Mad Love* showcased JoJo’s evolution as an artist and songwriter. Significantly, “JoJo received co-writing credits on every track on the album,” a clear indication of her deep involvement in the creative process and her commitment to telling her own story through her music. This level of creative control was a stark contrast to her previous experiences and allowed her to craft an album that truly reflected her artistic vision and mature perspective. The lead single featuring rapper and label mate Wiz Khalifa, set the tone for the album with its bold, assertive message, demonstrating her growth both lyrically and sonically.
The album was a commercial triumph, entering and peaking on the Billboard 200 chart at an impressive number 6, solidifying its place as “her third top-ten album in the U.S.” This success underscored her unwavering popularity and the strong connection she had maintained with her fanbase throughout her challenging years. Following the album’s release, JoJo embarked on the *Mad Love* tour in January 2017, a “four-month concert tour of North America and Europe,” which allowed her to bring her new music directly to her eager audiences worldwide. Furthermore, her influence extended to collaborations, including opening for Fifth Harmony on their *7/27 Tour* in June 2016, showcasing her continued relevance and respected standing among her peers in the pop landscape.
8. **Founding Clover Music & Reclaiming Her Classics**After her powerful return with *Mad Love* under Atlantic Records, JoJo, ever the independent spirit, wasn’t content to simply rest on her laurels. By August 2017, she announced her departure from Atlantic, signaling another pivotal moment in her journey towards complete artistic autonomy. This move wasn’t just about leaving a label; it was about laying the groundwork for something entirely her own: Clover Music, established through a joint venture, initially with Interscope and later transitioning to Warner Records. This bold declaration of independence truly showcased her unwavering commitment to taking full control of her career.
The very first project under Clover Music was a triumphant reclamation of her own history. In a powerful move that resonated deeply with her loyal fanbase, JoJo re-recorded and re-released her iconic debut album, *JoJo*, and her sophomore hit, *The High Road*, alongside singles like “Demonstrate” and “Disaster.” Dropping on December 21, 2018, these re-recordings were more than just new versions; they were a symbolic act of taking ownership of her masters, a tangible outcome of her long-fought battles for artistic freedom, ensuring she finally profited from her own work.
This strategic decision to re-record her early material became even more significant when Blackground Records and Empire Distribution later re-released her original debut album and *The High Road* to streaming services in September 2021. JoJo candidly expressed that these re-releases took her by surprise, stating that she did not financially profit from them. Instead, she urged her fans to stream her 2018 re-recorded versions, writing on Twitter: “A stream of the re-recorded 2018 version supports me and helps me continue to do what I love. Streaming the original unfortunately does not.” This clear communication solidified her role as an advocate for artists’ rights.
9. **’Good to Know’ and Evolving Sound**With her artistic freedom firmly in hand, JoJo dove headfirst into a period of prolific new music, truly showcasing her evolving sound and mature perspective. On May 1, 2020, she unveiled her highly anticipated fourth studio album, *Good to Know*. This project was a testament to her growth as a songwriter, with JoJo proudly receiving co-writing credits on every single track, a continuation of the creative control she embraced with *Mad Love*.
The album’s lead single, “Man,” released on March 13, 2020, set the stage for a deeply personal and introspective body of work. Its themes of self-love and resilience connected with audiences. Later, “What U Need” was released as the lead single from the deluxe version of *Good to Know*, which arrived on August 28, offering fans even more fresh material.
Although a tour supporting *Good to Know* was eagerly anticipated and set to begin in April 2021, the unforeseen challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately led to its cancellation. Despite this setback, JoJo’s consistent output during this period demonstrated her unwavering dedication to her craft and audience, proving that a global pause couldn’t dampen her creative spirit.
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10. **Holiday Cheer with ‘December Baby’ and ‘The Change’ Anthem**Demonstrating her remarkable versatility, JoJo didn’t stop at just one album in 2020. In a bold and impactful move, she released “The Change” on October 2, 2020, a powerful anthem penned by the esteemed Diane Warren. This track served as the official anthem for the Joe Biden 2020 presidential campaign, showcasing JoJo’s willingness to use her platform for causes she believes in and highlighting her growing influence.
Just a few weeks later, on October 30, 2020, JoJo surprised fans with her first-ever holiday album and her fifth studio album overall, *December Baby*. This festive collection allowed her to explore a different side of her artistry, bringing her signature soulful vocals to a beloved genre and proving no limits to her creative expression.
This period also saw JoJo engaging in noteworthy collaborations, further enriching her discography. In 2019, she teamed up with R&B singer-songwriter PJ Morton for the single “Say So,” a duet that garnered critical acclaim. Its impact was evident through nominations at the 2019 Soul Train Music Awards and 51st NAACP Image Awards, cementing her standing as a respected collaborator.
11. **’Trying Not to Think About It’ and Global Tours**Never one to slow down, JoJo continued her impressive run of album releases with her sixth studio album, *Trying Not to Think About It*, which dropped on October 1, 2021. This album further explored themes of mental health and self-reflection, offering listeners a raw and honest glimpse into her experiences. Preceded by the lead single “Worst (I Assume),” the project showcased a more mature and introspective side of the artist.
To support this new body of work, JoJo wasted no time in hitting the road. A six-date tour commenced the very next day after the album’s release, providing an intimate setting for fans to experience her new music live. This initial run quickly escalated into an even more ambitious undertaking: the extensive 42-date JoJo Tour 2022, which took her across the globe, reaffirming her international appeal.
Her collaborative spirit also remained strong during this time. In 2022, JoJo lent her talent to Stan Walker’s album *All In*, co-writing and collaborating on the heartfelt song “Remember Us.” This collaboration further highlighted her esteemed position within the music community, demonstrating her willingness to share her songwriting and vocal expertise.
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12. **Masked Singer & Other Television Spotlight**Beyond the recording studio and concert stage, JoJo continued to captivate audiences through memorable television appearances, truly demonstrating her multifaceted talent. In 2021, she took the nation by storm as “Black Swan” on the fifth season of *The Masked Singer*. Her stunning vocal performances beneath the elaborate costume earned her widespread praise, leading her all the way to a second-place finish and making her the first female runner-up.
Her television presence didn’t stop there. JoJo made recurring appearances as Sabine in the popular CW series *All American* in 2022, showcasing her acting chops and expanding her reach to a new generation of viewers. The same year, she graced the Red Team’s Chef’s Table as a guest diner on an episode of *Hell’s Kitchen*, offering a glimpse into her vibrant personality.
Continuing to diversify her on-screen portfolio, JoJo also participated in *A Very Demi Holiday Special* in 2023, further solidifying her status as a beloved figure in entertainment. These varied television engagements not only kept her in the public eye but also allowed her to showcase different facets of her charm and talent.
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13. **Broadway Debut: Shining Bright in ‘Moulin Rouge!’**In a truly spectacular and career-defining move, JoJo conquered yet another artistic frontier: the legendary stages of Broadway. On April 11, 2023, she made her highly anticipated Broadway debut, stepping into the iconic leading role of Satine in *Moulin Rouge! The Musical*. This wasn’t just another role; it was a testament to her incredible vocal ability, stage presence, and the culmination of a journey that began with her mother’s own training in musical theater.
Taking on such a demanding and prestigious role on Broadway showcased the depth of her talent and her willingness to continuously challenge herself. It allowed her to tap into her early theatrical roots, bringing a fresh and powerful interpretation to a character celebrated for her strength and vulnerability. This critically acclaimed debut indicated JoJo had truly transformed into a multifaceted artist.
Adding another layer to her creative endeavors, JoJo also lent her voice to the big screen in 2024. She released a captivating cover of “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” featured in the film *Lisa Frankenstein*. Directed by her friend and sometime-collaborator, Zelda Williams, the single was accompanied by a music video, skillfully interspersing clips from the film with JoJo performing in the studio.
14. **Vocal Artistry & Personal Reflections**Throughout her remarkable career, one constant has remained undeniable: JoJo’s extraordinary vocal artistry. Critics and fans alike have consistently praised her mezzo-soprano range, ranking it among “the best in the game” and drawing frequent comparisons to powerhouse vocalists like Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, and Beyoncé. From her earliest days, it was clear that her vocal prowess and mature material far “exceeded her age,” setting her apart and establishing her as a true vocal phenom.
While some early material and use of melisma occasionally drew criticism, JoJo has consistently honed her craft, evolving into an artist celebrated for her ability to “compulsively dissect emotional situations straight out of high-school movies via the medium of big, heartfelt choruses.” Her voice, described as “better suited to R&B,” has matured alongside her, conveying a depth of emotion and lyrical complexity that resonates profoundly with her audience, particularly in her more recent, self-penned works.
Beyond her thriving professional life, JoJo has also openly shared insights into her personal journey, announcing her first memoir, *Over the Influence: A Memoir*, released on September 17, 2024. This deeply personal undertaking offers an unfiltered look into her experiences and triumphs. While her engagement to Dexter Darden (announced December 2021) later broke off, she candidly shares both the highs and lows. She continues to release new music, with singles like “Porcelain” (October 2024) and “Too Much to Say” (November 2024), leading up to her upcoming EP, *NGL*, (January 2025) and a collaboration with Craig David, “In It With You,” (July 2025).
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From a young talent with an astonishing voice to a seasoned artist who has masterfully reclaimed her narrative, JoJo’s transformation is nothing short of inspiring. She has navigated the demanding currents of the entertainment industry with an unparalleled blend of resilience, unwavering talent, and an authentic spirit that shines brighter than ever. Her journey—marked by record-breaking hits, fierce legal battles, creative independence, and impactful artistic expansions across music, television, and Broadway—isn’t just a story of a pop star; it’s a powerful anthem of self-discovery and control. As she continues to evolve, releasing new music and sharing her story, JoJo stands as a beacon for artists everywhere, proving that true artistry is about more than just hitting the high notes; it’s about owning your voice, your story, and your extraordinary path. And for that, we can’t help but say, JoJo, you’re absolutely iconic!
