DJ JayTwo: The Pulse of California Roots Reggae

Three men posing together smiling at a live music venue, one wearing a purple outfit and hat, another in a black shirt with 'Bacomusic' printed on it, and the third in a black hoodie. The background shows stage lighting and equipment. — **From the left Kurrency King, Professor (Groundation Band), DJ JayTwo-Photo Credit provided by Joseph Alvarez**

For over fifteen years, DJ JayTwo has served as a vital pulse in the California Roots Reggae movement.

Based in Sacramento for two decades, Joseph Alvarez, who goes by his DJ moniker, JayTwo has cultivated a reputation as a versatile and conscious selector, effortlessly bridging the gap between the sun-drenched coastal anthems of SoCal and the deep, heavy roots vibrations of Northern CA. While the geography of the Golden State varies, JayTwo finds a singular thread that connects the two regions.

“There is really no difference in the energy,” he says of the North-South divide. “It’s the love for reggae music.” This philosophy lets him keep his crates fluid, opting for freestyle selections that respond to the crowd’s immediate reaction rather than a rigid setlist.

Evolution & The Secret Weapon

Having transitioned through the scene’s evolution from physical media to the digital age, JayTwo has learned that the “vibration” of a set relies on balance. While some selectors hunt for the most obscure tracks, JayTwo’s secret weapons are the ones that resonate across generations. He points to artists like Chronixx or Collie Buddz as his go-to’s—tracks that feel fresh yet familiar enough to spark instant recognition and movement on the dancefloor.

His approach to the craft is rooted in a humility he’s observed while sharing the stage with global icons like Mungo’s Hi-Fi, Mike Love and Nattali Rize (also spelled Natalee Rize).

“All the artists I have met are genuinely nice and humble,” JayTwo reflects. “It reminds me to stay the same.”

Two smiling men posing for a selfie indoors, with one man wearing a green shirt and a black beanie, and the other dressed in a black hoodie with yellow text. — From left, Rev (Fortunate Youth) and DJ JayTwo

Two men posing for a photo, smiling and making hand signs, in front of a colorful patterned backdrop. — From left, Rev (Fortunate Youth) and DJ JayTwo

Photos provided by Joseph Alvarez (DJ JayTwo)

Standing Out in the 916

Since transplanting from LA to Sacramento in 2007, JayTwo has carved out a unique niche in a local scene that can sometimes feel stagnant. In a community where some DJs shy away from “Cali Reggae Roots” or focus heavily on the prestige of “dubplates,” JayTwo chooses a different path.

“Locally, you are not considered a true reggae DJ unless you have ‘dubplates’ shouting your name,” JayTwo notes with a laugh. “I’m okay with [not having them]. It comes down to who is paying the most to get them done. I feel like that should happen naturally.”

By focusing on the music rather than the ego, JayTwo stands out. He is not interested in competition; he is interested in the growing “festival-style” movement in NorCal that brings families and artists together for multi-day celebrations of the culture. One such event was Reggae on the Creek on May 9, 2026, where JayTwo brought the same authentic, love-driven energy he has become known for. Rather than trying to outshine the lineup or showcase anything other than love, his focus was simply sharing Cali Reggae with friends and family, filling the void between the live bands alongside his fellow DJs.

Currently, in addition to his DJ performances, JayTwo currently serves as the House DJ for Midtown Live at 1630 J St. (16th & J St) in Midtown of Downtown Sacramento, where he also manages bookings, stage production and promotions.

Check out DJ JayTwo and Squarefield Massive on the wheels of steel at Midtown Live on Oct 30 for their Halloween Eve Costume Party, starts at 8 PM to midnight, $15 at the door — see you there!