[2][3] Since his emergence as a DJ, Saunders has run several independent labels and worked in music and film production, as well as artist promotion and management.

He attended Hyde Park's Kenwood Academy as an honor student during his high school years, where he played intramural tennis.

During this time, Saunders was selected by the city of Chicago's "Youth Action" program, which trains exceptional student athletes with the goal of professional careers.

Among his early musical influences were Aretha Franklin, Fleetwood Mac, Smokey Robinson, and Earth, Wind & Fire.

As a DJ, he would use loops and repetition for accentuation, focusing on sections that were stripped down to just the drum or bass — a tradition he would carry on as a producer.

Saunders group, Jesse's Gang was eventually signed to Geffen Records, releasing the album Center of Attraction shortly after.

The label releases digital content from many major download sites and features artists such as Inaya Day, Scott Langley, Sound Syndicate, Igor Garnier, Didier Vanelli, Mia Calderon, Joe Smooth, Marshall Jefferson, and Jesse Saunders himself.

In 2009, Saunders released the album 25th Anniversary of House Music, which resulted in a worldwide tour featuring art depicting the culture and pioneers of the genre.

Mayor Goodman issued a proclamation during the red carpet ceremony for the highly publicized affair for his outstanding contributions to education and the culture of Las Vegas.

Miller also promoted the career of gospel singer Mahalia Jackson and owned and operated the Grand Ballroom, which showcased artists such as Cab Calloway and Count Basie.