Jacob Latimore

Jacob O'Neal Latimore Jr. (born August 10, 1996) is an American singer, rapper and actor. In 2016, Latimore released his debut album Connection. As an actor, he is best known for his roles in Black Nativity, The Maze Runner, Collateral Beauty and Detroit.

Life and career

Latimore was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin the son of Latitia Taylor and Jacob Latimore Sr. When he was five years old he watched the movie The Temptations – an ode to the popular Motown group – and fell in love with music. He spent weeks watching the movie over and over, trying to memorize the songs and learn all the dance moves. Jacob’s father and uncles were also musically talented and encouraged his interest. When he was nine years old he decided to take music more seriously and produced his first song, “Best Friend.” DJs across Milwaukee took to the song, and “Best Friend” received airtime. At the same time, Latimore was performing at events and festivals across the state, trying to make a name for himself.

Someone at Disney heard Latimore's song and decided to add it to Radio Disney's Incubator program, which features upcoming young musicians. This led to exposure with other talented artists and an appearance on the Maury Povich Show. Jacob released a new single, "Superstar," which landed a spot on the Billboard R&B and Hip Hop charts. In early 2010, Jacob signed a record deal with Jive Records. He also scored a lead role in the film Vanishing on 7th Street and a part in the upcoming movie The Untitled Pele Movie about the Brazilian soccer player. Jacob partnered with fellow Jive artists Issa and Justin Martin for the song "Camera Phone," and in October 2010 the three artists filmed the music video. Latimore has said, "I give all credit to God, he gave me this gift, and I am so excited to see what other doors he is going to open for me!"

Latimore has co-starred in several major films, including Black Nativity (2013), as Langston, and Ride Along (2014), as Ramon. He also appeared in the movie The Maze Runner, which was released in theaters September 19, 2014. He then starred in the drama film Collateral Beauty, which was released on December 16, 2016, and street magic drama movie Sleight, which is scheduled for release on April 28, 2017.

Latimore is currently managed by Geffen Management Group, a talent management company founded by Jeremy Geffen, and whose artists under management include Smokey Robinson and the estate of the late singer/songwriter Marvin Gaye.

Music

Latimore's first single "Best Friend" was released in 2005. In 2006, "Superstar" was released. In June 2014, he released his hit song "Heartbreak Heard Around The World" ft. T-Pain. In November 2015, he announced that his first debut album, "Connection", would be released on December 9, 2016. The album features singles such as "The Real" featuring Singer IshDARR from Milwaukee.