As I sit here, observing the transformation of my dear friend Jay Roncesvalles, now known as J2X, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride. It’s been an incredible journey for him, from his early beginnings to becoming the driving force behind the viral dance craze “Gento.” Today, I am privileged to be present as Mark Ghosn, our Editor in Chief and the Philippines’ “Hugot King,” conducts a ZEEN exclusive interview with J2X.
Jay’s story starts with XB Gensan, the talented dance group that became ABS-CBN’s Showtime’s first grand champion. XB Gensan quickly captured the hearts of Filipinos nationwide with their raw talent and electrifying stage presence, and Jay was the center of it all with his infectious energy and unmatched choreography skills.
But fame often comes at a price, and Jay experienced his fair share of personal struggles. He was honest about his moments of air headedness and boastfulness when he was at his peak. Being the center of XB Gensan meant carrying the weight of expectations, which took a toll on him. He felt the need to break free and discover who he was as an artist.
Jay decided to step away from the group and build his solo career. However, the journey was not smooth sailing. He faced failure and disappointment, falling into a pattern that threatened to consume him. During this challenging time, he made a crucial realization: he needed a change. He embarked on a journey abroad as an entertainer, where he encountered experiences that pushed him to reflect on his life choices.
It was then that Jay discovered the power of faith and spirituality. The church became his sanctuary, providing guidance and a fresh perspective. He returned to the Philippines with newfound strength, determined to get back on track. He channeled his creative energy into choreographing for the King of P-POP, SB19.
Jay’s hit choreographies for SB19, such as “Bazinga,” “Felip’s Rockstar,” and “Bulan,” have captivated audiences with their innovative moves and infectious rhythms. Each dance routine showcases J2X’s artistic genius, bringing a new level of excitement and flair to the performance. With every step, J2X creates an unforgettable visual experience that perfectly complements the music. J2X’s most recent choreography, for the song “Gento,” has taken the world by storm. This viral dance craze has spread like wildfire, with people from all walks of life joining in on the fun. From social media platforms to dance studios, “Gento” has become a phenomenon.
But what sets J2X apart is his humility. He refrains from taking undue credit, allowing the song and choreography to shine instead. He understands the importance of collaboration and uses his expertise to elevate the talents of others. His impact on the P-POP industry and the Philippine dance community, in general, is immeasurable, as he continues to create dance crazes that take TikTok by storm.
As I watch J2X being interviewed by Mark Ghosn, I see a man who has grown and matured through his experiences. He carries himself with grace, effortlessly exuding confidence and elegance. Behind the charisma, I know the journey of a remarkable artist who has weathered the storms, embraced change, and emerged stronger than ever.
In a realm where trends flicker like fleeting flames and superficial fame dominates, J2X stands as a beacon of authenticity, resilience, and self-discovery. His journey, marked by each creation and dance step that ignites a cultural blaze, resonates as a testament to the enduring power of personal fortitude. As a close friend, witnessing the evolution of J2X’s artistry fills me with an overwhelming sense of pride for the milestones he has conquered and the timeless legacy he is sculpting.
J2X is more than a creator of dance crazes; he personifies the artist who dances to the rhythm of his own authenticity. Through the vicissitudes of fame and creative exploration, he extends an invitation to all to join him on this extraordinary journey. It serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative might within self-belief and the exquisite beauty found in the constant process of reinvention.
As the dance floor transforms with each beat of J2X’s rhythm, he becomes a living embodiment of resilience, an artist unafraid to explore uncharted territories. His journey is an inspiration to those who dare to break free from societal norms and embrace their uniqueness with courage and authenticity. From the inception of the “Gento” dance craze to the present, where his influence transcends the boundaries of the dance floor, J2X exemplifies the evolving nature of Philippine dance.
J2X’s legacy reverberates beyond his dance moves; it encapsulates the profound impact he leaves on the dance community and the wider artistic landscape. His narrative is a testament to the enduring influence of those who navigate the ever-evolving currents of the industry. As a friend and witness to his journey, I celebrate the indelible mark he leaves behind—a testament to the enduring influence of those who dare to dance to the beat of their own rhythm.
In a world with transience, J2X’s story stands as a reminder that authenticity and self-discovery are eternal virtues. His journey urges us to embrace our uniqueness, to believe in the power of reinvention, and to dance through life with the authenticity that defines us. As J2X continues to etch his legacy, we are privileged to witness the transformative power of dance intertwined with resilience and an unwavering faith in one’s true self. Joining him in this extraordinary journey, we find inspiration in the profound beauty of self-belief and the art of perpetual reinvention.
You can watch the interview soon on ZEEN’s social media channels.
Meanwhile, here’s an exclusive video of his Gento dance choreography:
About the Author – Gion Santiago
Gion, who goes by “kionhyung” online, is a humble superstar, and no one could say otherwise.
Editor in Chief: Mark Ghosn
Video Producer: Gion Santiago
Photography by Jai Murcillo
Assisted by Bhads Castor
Editorial Assistant: Ristichen
Styling by Bea Guerrero
Hair by Daniel Tongol
Makeup by Perry Gamboa
Asst Videographer: Shannen de Jiz
Asst Video Editor Michael Alfie Salamat
