Friday full of celebrations for Montgomery's AJ 'Maestro' Hebrew
Friday is turning into a daylong celebration of the life, talents and memories of “The Maestro,” Al-Jahara (AJ) Hebrew, 30, who died Dec. 12.
The Montgomery native was one of the city’s outstanding musicians: He was a singer, a multi-instrumentalist who could play 16 instruments, and a music producer.
A homegoing service will be held in south Montgomery at 11 a.m. Friday at New Life Church of God in Christ Annex 2, 5000 Patterson Road. This celebration of Hebrew’s life is open to the public and will include a memorial choir of volunteers organized by Jhae Ray. Ray said the choir was approaching 50 members as of Tuesday.
“That’s just people who said they wanted to,” Ray said. “I know there are a lot of people who are just going to show up and sing.”
Immediately following the service, a repast that’s also open to the public will be held in the gym at Resurrection Catholic Missions of the South, 2815 Forbes Drive, just over 20 minutes away in north Montgomery.
The two gatherings were announced Tuesday by Hebrew's family.
“We’re excited to come together to celebrate his life,” Ray said. “It’s very unfortunate. AJ, he’s definitely a musical pillar."
Friday night, a special Gift and Dream Musical Memorial Vibe is being held at Another Level of Excellence (ALOE), 2596 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. There is no admission charge, but donations will be accepted.
Hebrew died Dec. 12, after being a passenger in a vehicle that crashed on Dec. 8.
He was a member of local bands King Bee and Souled Out Groove, and had his own band, Al Jahara and the Good Vibez. He also often accompanied other artists during live shows.
"It’s only right that we celebrate him this way, that we make music and celebrate him the way he’d want to be celebrated," Ray said. "We’re going to pour out our hearts through music, just like AJ did.”
Biography of AJ 'Maestro' Hebrew
Note: The following biography of Hebrew was provided by his family:
Al-Jahara Israel Hebrew, known to his loved ones as "AJ," was a musical prodigy whose passion for music ignited at the tender age of three when he was introduced to the rhythmic world of drumming by his father. Born on June 26, 1993, in Birmingham, AL, AJ's remarkable journey as a multi-instrumentalist, producer, songwriter, and gifted musician would leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
At the age of six, AJ's musical talents continued to flourish as he began playing the piano at Carver Elementary and Arts Magnet School, demonstrating an uncanny ability to create melodies that resonated with the soul. His dedication to his craft led him to Jeff Davis High School, where he became an integral part of the marching band, participating in statewide competitions and where they consistently earned superior ratings. AJ's musical prowess became undeniable, and his talent began to shine as a bright star in his community.
Following his graduation from high school, AJ's insatiable thirst for musical knowledge led him to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. There, he honed his skills even further, expanding his horizons and making lifelong connections with fellow musicians from around the world. His performances with world-renowned artists across the nation elevated his status as a musical virtuoso, leaving audiences in awe of his talent and passion for music.
Upon returning to his hometown of Montgomery, AL, AJ shared his musical talents with the world, gracing the stage alongside renowned bands and artists such as SoulTree Live, Jeremy Flyy and Flight Control, Souled Out Groove, Jonathan Michael and the Avant Garde, King Bee, and MGM Soul Collective, among many others. However, AJ's passion extended beyond just performing. He founded his own band, The Good Vibez, driven by a mission to spread love, peace, and positivity through the universal language of music.
One of AJ's proudest achievements was the release of his debut EP, "One Heart's Journey." This soulful project showcased his immense talent and featured collaborations with many esteemed artists. The album served as a testament to AJ's life story, and he poured his heart and soul into its creation. His dedication to the success of this album was unwavering, and he had the privilege of performing his original compositions on grand stages across the state alongside world-renowned artists.
But AJ's talents were not limited to the realm of music alone. He was also a gifted actor, gracing the stage in numerous plays in his hometown, showcasing his versatility and ability to captivate audiences with his performances.
Above all else, AJ cherished his family deeply. His sisters, nieces, and nephews held a special place in his heart, and he dedicated himself to being a loving and supportive presence in their lives. His love for his family was boundless, and it was clear that they were his world.
On December 12, 2023, the world lost a musical genius, a gifted actor, and a loving friend and family member. AJ's spirit lives on in the music he created, the memories he left behind, and the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in his journey. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable talent but also for his kindness, his passion, and the love he shared with all who knew him.
Al-Jahara leaves his legacy to be lived on by his sisters Khalifa (Jerel) Khriztal Hebrew-Jones, Octavia Ayana Woods, and Shekinah Enzinga Hebrew; grandmother Hattie Gaines; niece Khloe Grant; nephews Khaidon Steen, Ke'Mell Grant, Joel Jones, Jaydeyn Hebrew, and Jah'King Brooks; aunts Sharon (Karon) Stembridge and Sonya Woods; uncles Tony Gaines, Charles Woods, Jr., and Otha Lee Holmes.
Al-Jahara was loved by his devoted friends, Amon (Shelecia) Robinson, Paris "Proe" Monroe, Justin "Bass" Williams, Antonio Cordae, and Fredie Giles; loving God Parents Jesse and Lynette Wright; many loving cousins, friends, bandmates, and extended family.
Montgomery Advertiser reporter Shannon Heupel covers things to do in the River Region. Contact him at sheupel@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Friday full of celebrations for Montgomery's AJ 'Maestro' Hebrew
