Jayce Basques's illustrious career commenced with a standout performance as the lead role of Santa Claus in Immaculate Conception School's kindergarten production of "The Littlest Christmas Tree" in Port Perry, Ontario, Canada. This debut role garnered significant attention and publicity, prompting Basques to take a temporary hiatus from the stage to focus on his burgeoning music career.
As a product of the San Francisco Bay Area's vibrant rock scene, Basques and his best friend and collaborator, Jeffrey Scott Harber, began playing and writing music influenced by local acts such as Green Day and Tom Waits. They frequently performed at iconic venues like Slims, 924 Gilman St, and Bottom of the Hill.
Over time, the duo formed Aphasia, a quasi-post-hardcore radio rock outfit, which was eventually produced by Trapt's Chris Brown and signed to DRT Entertainment alongside Blindside, Clutch, and GWAR. Aphasia went on to tour extensively throughout the US, captivating audiences with their energetic performances.
The band's popularity reached new heights with the placement of their single "Flatline" in the 2005 film War of the Worlds. Following this success, Basques and his bandmates underwent a significant genre shift, incorporating more complex musicianship and welcoming new members Aaron Prim and Adam Humphrey to the group. DownDownDown, as they were now known, released several EPs and served as the live touring band for Universal Motown Records Group artist Damato.
After completing high school, Basques returned to his theatrical roots, taking on the role of Goldberg in the west coast premiere of "The Wild Party." He then enrolled in the prestigious Meisner Technique Studio, studying under the guidance of Jim Jarrett alongside fellow students Emilie Germain, Dee Marshall, and Marie Noelle Marquis.
Upon graduating, Basques's acting career experienced a significant surge, with numerous booking and filming projects commencing in the summer of 2011. He often had to live in his car for months at a time during this period. Additionally, Basques signed with Ford Models and has since been featured in publications and campaigns worldwide, solidifying his status as a multifaceted artist.
