Jackie Hill-Perry was born on June 21, 1989, in St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up, she had a passion for poetry and music, which eventually led her down the path of becoming a spoken word poet. She discovered her talent for writing at a young age and began performing her poetry in front of audiences.
In 2008, Jackie made a life-changing decision to convert to Christianity. This transformation not only changed her spiritual beliefs but also had a profound impact on her personal life. Upon converting, she claimed to have shifted from being a lesbian to identifying as a straight woman. This journey of faith and self-discovery greatly influenced her art and the themes she explores in her poetry.
After her conversion, Jackie delved into spoken word poetry, infusing traditional Christian themes with her own unique style. Her powerful performances caught the attention of many, and she quickly gained recognition for her thought-provoking work. In 2014, she released her debut rap album titled The Art of Joy, showcasing her talent as a musician and lyricist.
In 2014, Jackie married fellow spoken word poet Preston Perry. The couple has since welcomed four children into their family: August, Autumn, Sage, and Eden. Their bond as a couple and as parents plays a significant role in Jackie's life and art, inspiring her to create meaningful and impactful work.
Over the years, Jackie has collaborated with various artists within the Christian hip-hop scene. She appeared as a guest artist on the 2013 album Instruments of Mercy by Beautiful Eulogy and worked with Christian rappers John Givez and JGivens on the 2016 album Church Clothes 3 by Lecrae. Her contributions to the genre have earned her widespread recognition and respect among her peers.
Jackie Hill-Perry's artistry transcends boundaries, blending faith, personal experiences, and musical talent to create a unique and impactful body of work. Her journey from poetry to music and her unwavering commitment to her beliefs have made her a notable figure in the world of spoken word and Christian hip-hop.