Lawrence graduated from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor of Science degree/Summa Cum Laude. He has been a member of faculties at Brigham Young University, University of Utah, Snow College, and other Universities. Jay performed with celebrities including: Cher, Natalie Cole, Sammy Davis Jr., Andy and Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees, Tom Jones, Gladys Knight, Linda Ronstadt, and Nancy Sinatra. Lawrence has concertized with jazz artists, including: Cyrus Chestnut, John Patitucci, Roy Hargrove, Milt Jackson, Carol Kaye, Clark Terry, and Phil Woods. Jay’s recording, Sweet Lime reached number 7 on the Jazz Week charts. His recent album, Sonic Paragon, was named CD of the month by New York's WBGO. Lawrence soloed on Kaskade’s twice Grammy Nominated album Atmosphere. Jay has also recorded over 130 Broadway soundtracks for theatres worldwide. He has toured with luminaries such as Chris LeDoux, Liberace,The Osmonds, and James Moody. Lawrence has recorded many film scores such as: The Sandlot, Gettysburg, Three Ninjas Kick Back, and U-571.