Community activists protested and demanded CPS to undo their decision, claiming that Jeremih's music was "not appropriate for students" and "promotes teen sex". Daley of the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to campaign children to return to school. In August 2009, Jeremih was selected by Ron Huberman and Mayor Richard M. The second single, " Imma Star (Everywhere We Are)", peaked at number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100. In promotion of the album, Jeremih took part in America's Most Wanted Tour, alongside Lil Wayne, Young Jeezy and Soulja Boy Tell 'Em. The album debuted at number 6 on the US Billboard 200, selling 59,000 copies in its first week. In June 2009, Jeremih released his eponymous self-titled debut studio album, Jeremih. The song later peaked at number 4 on the US Billboard Hot 100. In 2009, Jeremih released his debut single, " Birthday Sex". After performing for the two, Jeremih signed a recording contract with Def Jam that same day. In February 2009, Jeremih met with Def Jam 's CEO Russell Simmons, and executive vice president of A&R Karen Kwak. Jeremih received guidance from his cousin, Day26 group member, Willie Taylor. Together, they recorded a song, titled "My Ride". While attending Columbia College Chicago, Jeremih collaborated with record producer Mick Schultz. Jeremih with Julie Moran at the 2009 American Music Awards Career 2009–2011: Jeremih and All About You After performing a tribute to Ray Charles at one of the campus's talent shows, he received positive feedback and realized his vocal ability, saying that the "music was just taking over".
He transferred to Columbia College Chicago in 2007 to pursue a degree in music business. After spending a semester at the university studying engineering, he wanted to change his education to something related to music. He enrolled at the University of Illinois and Parkland College in Urbana-Champaign. His strong academic performance enabled him to graduate from high school a year early. Felton was a good student and earned academic honors at Morgan Park High School. He also learned to play percussion instruments like congas and timbales.
He attended Morgan Park High School, where he was part of the marching band as well as a Latin jazz band. 2.1 2009–2011: Jeremih and All About Youīorn in Chicago, Illinois, Jeremih began playing drums at the age of three and is able to play the saxophone, several percussion instruments and piano/keyboards.