Biography
Layne Harper, Jr. was born into the vibrant heart of Memphis, Tennessee, on February 5th, enveloped by a diverse cultural tapestry. His roots trace back to Faronda, a native Memphian, and Dr. Layne Harper Sr., an Apostle originating from Trinidad & Tobago, imbuing Layne's upbringing with a rich blend of influences. Raised in a military family, Layne's early years were defined by a nomadic lifestyle, with relocations across continents, including seven formative years spent in Darmstadt and Mannheim, Germany.
Following his education at Millington Central High School in 2000, Layne found himself back in Memphis under the guardianship of his maternal grandparents, Emma and Harvey Stephenson. Fuelled by his passion for music, Layne embarked on a transformative journey to Brooklyn, New York, where he found solace and inspiration under the roof of his paternal grandparents, Rosita and Carl Harper.
The vibrant pulse of Nashville, Tennessee, beckoned Layne in December 2001, where he was destined to encounter his life partner, Jennifer Harper, amidst the city's bustling music scene. Stepping into the role of a father at the tender age of 21 with the arrival of his son, Xavier, in 2004, Layne's family expanded with the birth of his second son, Jaydon. In 2009, the Harpers embraced a new chapter, relocating to Tampa, Florida, in pursuit of fresh opportunities and horizons.
Layne's musical prowess garnered widespread acclaim, earning him recognition on esteemed platforms such as MTV, BET, and XXL Magazine, alongside a partnership with global icon PUMA. Transitioning his creative endeavors, Layne ventured into the world of fashion, founding his own clothing brand, VCTRY, as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit.
Today, Layne, together with his devoted wife, Jennifer, and their beloved children, Jaydon and Enyal, call Tampa, Florida, home. Their eldest son, Xavier, proudly serves in the US Navy, embodying the family's legacy of dedication and service. As Layne navigates life's complexities, his unwavering devotion to family, creativity, and community continues to define his journey.