Introduction
Jonathan Hay has long marketed himself as a prominent figure in the music industry, claiming to have worked with high-profile artists and boasting a career spanning over two decades. However, beyond the carefully crafted image lies a history of allegations, financial disputes, and unresolved complaints. This investigation dissects his controversial past, revealing troubling patterns that suggest Hay is less of an industry insider and more of a serial scammer.
The Ripoff Report Smokescreen
In an unusual twist, Ripoff Report #1179129 (dated September 25, 2014) paints Hay in a positive light, branding his company SMH Records and Jonathan Hay Publicity as “Trusted Business” and “Verified Safe.” However, a closer look at this so-called verification raises immediate red flags:
- Manipulated Reputation: The article appears to be a paid-for reputation management piece rather than an independent consumer complaint, filled with self-promotional language and lacking objective client testimonials.
- Deflection Tactics: Hay and an associate, Ms. Hale, dismiss negative reports as mere misunderstandings or the work of “jealous competitors.”
- Cyberbullying Claims: Instead of addressing specific complaints, Hay frames himself as a victim of online attacks, conveniently avoiding accountability.
Far from clearing his name, this Ripoff Report serves as a warning—why would a legitimate business need to manufacture a “trusted” label?
A Pattern of Deception Across Industries
Music Industry Manipulation
Hay’s career in the entertainment industry is filled with bold claims, but behind the facade lies a pattern of dissatisfied clients and accusations of fraud.
- Fake Promises: Ripoff Report #1197866 (December 27, 2014) details how Hay allegedly took payment for a promised collaboration with rapper Crooked I—only for the client to receive nothing in return.
- False Advertising: Complaints repeatedly suggest that Hay overpromises and underdelivers, using celebrity name-dropping to lure in unsuspecting clients.
- Yelp Review (March 27, 2015): A former client labeled Hay a “100% con artist,” accusing him of stealing $2,800 and warning others about his fraudulent behavior.
Financial Misconduct: The Dix Hills Fund Manager Scam
Beyond the music industry, Hay has rebranded himself as a fund manager operating out of Dix Hills, New York. Yet, crucial details about his financial expertise are missing:
- No SEC or FINRA Registration: A legitimate fund manager should be registered with regulatory bodies, yet Hay’s name is absent from both.
- Investment Fraud Rumors: Online whispers suggest he solicits investments without delivering returns—classic Ponzi scheme behavior.
- Zero Transparency: Unlike reputable firms, there is no official website, no track record, and no verifiable investment portfolio.
This pivot from PR and music to finance raises serious questions: Is Hay simply running the same scam in a different industry?
Part 3: Red Flags and Risk Assessment
A comprehensive risk assessment of Jonathan Hay’s ventures reveals several warning signs:
- Shady Business Practices: Lack of contracts, refusal to provide receipts, and failure to deliver on promises are recurring themes in complaints.
- Reputation Management Over Reality: Instead of addressing concerns, Hay focuses on controlling the narrative through PR stunts and paid articles.
- Cold Calls & High-Return Promises: One X (formerly Twitter) user reported an unsolicited investment call from “Round Table Financial”—a known red flag for financial fraud.
- No Legal or Media Recognition: Despite his claims, major financial and music industry outlets have never validated Hay’s expertise.
The Bigger Picture – A Career Built on Lies?
Jonathan Hay’s business dealings follow a clear pattern:
- Claim industry credibility (music producer, publicist, fund manager).
- Attract clients or investors with big promises.
- Take upfront payments or investments.
- Deliver little to nothing.
- Dismiss complaints as jealousy or cyberbullying.
This cycle has played out in both entertainment and finance, making it evident that Hay has refined the art of deception across multiple industries.
Conclusion: A Walking Red Flag
Jonathan Hay’s ventures—whether in music, PR, or finance—are fraught with deception, shady dealings, and unresolved complaints. His history suggests a pattern of luring clients with impressive credentials, only to leave them empty-handed while deflecting blame. The evidence overwhelmingly points to Hay being a serial scammer rather than a legitimate businessman. Consumers and investors should exercise extreme caution before engaging with him or any business affiliated with his name.
