Keeping Miss Bee's Spirit Alive: The Bond Between Justice Jay and Kinyatta

It’s been a long time coming, but the much-anticipated album release for DMV recording artist Justice Jay is finally here! You’ve probably seen her and her band tearing up the DMV music scene with their unique brand of go-go, playing to sold-out crowds and adoring fans. But before Justice Jay, the fierce performer you see today, there was my little Esther.

Most people don’t know this, but I’ve known Esther since she was a toddler, back when her siblings were just young kids. I spent a few summers at her parents’ house as the *flyest* summer nanny in town! And those kids? Oh, they were fly too, with their hair braided in exotic styles I proudly paraded outside. Those were the good old days.

Let me tell you, I even taught Esther how to eat strawberries *properly*—in a bowl, with the green leaves cut off, sprinkled with sugar! Trust me, it’s the best way to do it. As time passed, Esther's family and my mom, Miss Bee, stayed incredibly close—almost like siblings. And that’s where the magic began.

Esther grew up with my mom playing a significant role in her life, taking on the “Godmommy” title like she always did—with full heart and intention. Miss Bee, known for pouring into the youth, especially took to Esther when she saw her talent for singing. My mom had a voice that could move mountains. She was a noted singer, aspiring recording artist, songwriter, worship leader, and band member—basically, a one-woman music revolution. She knew music, lived music, and she *breathed* music. So, naturally, she became the perfect mentor and singing coach for young Esther.

Now, I don’t even have to tell you. You can ask Justice Jay herself—my mom, Miss Bee, was instrumental in cultivating her voice, confidence, stage presence, and ambition to pursue music. It was a bond that ran deep, forged through the love of music, guidance, and belief in something greater. I can’t even begin to express how proud I am of Esther for honoring my mom at her album release party in late August, where she proudly displayed Miss Bee’s photo as a tribute to her influence.

If you haven’t heard of Justice Jay yet, you’re welcome—because you’re hearing about her from me first! With her immense talent and the biggest angelic support from Miss Bee, the love of her family, and adoring fans, there’s no limit to how far she can go.

Thank you, Esther, for keeping Miss Bee’s spirit alive and for remembering the profound impact she had on you. To everyone reading, if you want to support this amazing artist, be sure to follow Justice Jay on YouTube and Facebook. The sky is truly the limit!

And always remember—strawberries with sugar, folks. It's life-changing. 🍓

Kinyatta E. Gray is a Certified Master Coach, Grief Educator, Author, and Founder of The Heart of Miss Bee, Inc. Gray writes about grief and loss for women grieving the loss of their mothers. The Heart of Miss Bee, Inc. exists to honor the memory of the late Beverly E. Carroll, Kinyatta's Mother. 

Esther’s (Justice Jay) Final Photo with Miss Bee (my mom)

Miss Bee’s photo at the Justice Jay album release party.

Justice Jay paying homage to her music coach and mentor, Miss Bee.