JJ Da Boss: The Street Racing Legend Who Built Memphis into a Powerhouse

JJ Da Boss, born Jonathan Day on August 10, 1973, in Memphis, Tennessee, has become a legendary figure in the world of street racing. Raised in the small town of Joiner, Arkansas, JJ's passion for muscle cars ignited at a young age. By the age of 10, he was already driving and racing on the dirt roads of Mississippi County, influenced by his family's involvement in street racing.

Photo by The Commercial Appeal

Coming from a family of roofers, JJ worked in the roofing business for the first 20 years of his life. He invested his earnings into buying, fixing, and trading old cars, nurturing his love for muscle cars. One of his early race cars was a 1966 Chevy II Nova, which he modified with a 402 big block engine from an old Bob truck.

JJ's racing career wasn't without its challenges. He made some poor choices that led to an eight-year and one-month stint in federal prison. However, this period served as a turning point, teaching him to appreciate life and everyone in it. Upon his release, JJ returned to his passion for cars, buying and selling old vehicles to finance his racing endeavors. 

Photo by Sherry Castongue

Determined to create a unique street racing scene, JJ established "SPIN CITY" in Memphis, emphasizing old-school racing values. He introduced the "arm drop" start, where races begin with the drop of an arm rather than modern lighting systems. This approach harkens back to the roots of street racing, focusing on the thrill and authenticity of the race.

JJ's charisma and racing prowess caught the attention of television producers, leading to his debut on Discovery Channel's "Street Outlaws" in December 2016. He later starred in his own spin-off, "Street Outlaws: Memphis," where he leads a close-knit team of racers, including his wife Tricia Day, known as "Midget," and Precious Cooper. JJ is known for his strategic mind, often using psychological tactics to gain an advantage over competitors.

Photo by Mark Michal

In addition to his television success, JJ serves as the Race Master for "Street Outlaws: Fastest In America," overseeing high-stakes races with purses as large as $100,000. His leadership and commitment to traditional street racing values have solidified his status as a respected figure in the racing community. 

JJ's personal life is deeply intertwined with his racing career. He and Tricia have 11 children and five grandchildren, and they often race together, showcasing their shared passion for the sport. JJ's fleet of race cars includes notable vehicles like "Ole Heavy," a 1949 Chevy pickup, and "Heifer," a 1966 Chevy II Nova with a rich history in his racing journey. 

Despite his fame, JJ remains grounded, often engaging with fans and staying true to his roots. He continues to inspire aspiring racers with his story of redemption and success, proving that with determination and passion, it's possible to turn one's life around and achieve greatness in the world of street racing.