JD McCrary facts for kids

Jaydon McCrary (born July 18, 2007), known as JD McCrary, is a talented American actor, dancer, and singer. He became famous for playing Kenny Payne in the TV show The Paynes on the Oprah Winfrey Network. Many people also know him as the voice of young Simba in the 2019 movie The Lion King. JD McCrary is signed with Hollywood Records and released his first music collection, called an extended play (EP), titled Shine in April 2019. His song "Keep In Touch" was even featured in the popular dancing video game Just Dance 2020.

JD McCrary's Journey to Stardom

JD McCrary started his acting career in 2015 when he was just 8 years old. His first role was on the TV show K.C. Undercover, where he appeared in two episodes.

Early Performances and Music

In December 2016, JD McCrary was a guest singer on a song called "Terrified" by Donald Glover, also known as Childish Gambino. After this, he performed live on several TV shows. He sang "I Want You Back" by The Jackson 5 on Little Big Shots. He also sang "Who's Lovin' You" on The Ellen Show. He even performed at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards to support Childish Gambino's song "Terrified."

In December 2017, JD McCrary sang the national anthem before a Los Angeles Clippers basketball game. This happened after a video of him singing went viral, meaning it became very popular online, a few weeks earlier. In 2017, he also had small roles in the TV shows I'm Dying Up Here and Teachers.

Signing with Hollywood Records

On January 14, 2018, JD McCrary released his first official song, "Inviting All of You." A big moment came on August 13, 2018, when it was announced that he became the youngest artist to sign with Disney Music Group's Hollywood Records. He then released the music video for his second song, "My Name," on August 28. On January 24, 2019, he released his first song after signing with the label, called "Keep in Touch."

Big Roles in Film and TV

In 2019, JD McCrary appeared in the Universal comedy movie Little. He also provided the voice of young Simba in the live-action remake of the Disney movie The Lion King. JD McCrary shared that he thought about Donald Glover, who voices the adult Simba, when he was working on his part. He said he needed to consider how Simba would grow up.

Also in 2019, JD McCrary played a young Michael Jackson in the BET TV series American Soul, which started in February. On April 19, he released his first EP, Shine. This music collection included songs produced by famous music producers like Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox.

Musical Style and Influences

In an interview with Vibe magazine, JD McCrary shared who inspires his music. He said that Michael Jackson is his biggest influence. He also looks up to other great artists like Stevie Wonder, Bruno Mars, Justin Bieber, and Chris Brown.

Music Releases

Extended Plays (EPs)

Singles (Songs)

Guest Appearances

Film and Television Roles

Movies

TV Shows