OFF THE RECORD — Projexx: 'Growth requires letting go'

Kingston-born artist Projexx has carved a unique lane, blending dancehall, reggae, Afrobeats, and global sounds into music that resonates beyond Jamaica. The grandson of legendary producer King Jammy and son of producer Lloyd "John John" James, Projexx has proven that while music may run through his bloodline, his success has been earned on his own terms.

Fresh off a string of releases, including Godspeed and collaborations such as RARRI alongside Juls and Valiant, the artist continues to evolve. But beyond the music, who is the man with the microphone? CNW sat down with Projexx for an honest conversation that peeled back the layers.

Away from the bright lights and studio sessions, Projexx says his happiest moments are the simplest ones.

"When I'm not doing music, I like to cook and invite friends over. We'll have a small gathering, chat, laugh, play board games like Ludi or dominoes. I'm always down to build a vibe," he says with a smile. "Sometimes I just throw away my phone and actually live life in real time with family and friends."

Despite coming from one of Jamaica's most respected musical families, Projexx is quick to dismiss the notion that his career came easily.

"Some people think because I come from a musical legacy everything was handed to me," he says. "But I had to work on my craft just like everyone else. I experimented, I failed, I went back to the drawing board and found myself as the artist I am today."

That process of self-discovery continues to fuel him.

"Just the fact that I have this gift to create the way I do gives me purpose," he explains. "The more I grow, the more I understand what I was brought here to do. Then there's the love I receive daily from supporters, friends and family. Knowing how much they're depending on me really keeps me going."

Interestingly, while some artists can point to moments when they almost walked away from the industry, Projexx says quitting has never crossed his mind.

"I've never ever felt like giving up," he says confidently. "Things happen that might discourage me a little, but I know my purpose, so I try to stay focused on that."

His music, he says, is simply a reflection of the life he's lived.

"A lot of my music comes from growing up in Kingston, being around music from an early age, travelling, relationships and just observing life. I pull inspiration from real experiences — love, ambition, wins, losses and the energy of the culture."

Even his more carefree records carry pieces of his personal journey.

"I always want the music to feel honest, even when I'm experimenting with different sounds and vibes."

Ironically, the song he considers his most truthful has yet to be released.

"That's probably the most honest song I've ever written because I didn't filter my words," he reveals. "I had an experience and I sang exactly what happened."

Fans will have to wait a little longer before hearing that side of him.

If he had the power to reshape the music industry overnight, Projexx says the solution is surprisingly simple.

"I'd add a little more love and less ego," he says. "Less segregation and more unity."

It's a philosophy that seems to extend beyond music and into the way he approaches life.

Even after years of performing, there's another truth many fans wouldn't expect.

"I still get nervous sometimes," he admits. "Especially if I'm performing somewhere for the first time."

It is perhaps a reminder that confidence and vulnerability can comfortably exist side by side.

His definition of success has also matured considerably over the years.

"When I first started, success looked like getting recognition, hearing my songs everywhere and proving myself as an artist," he reflects. "Now it's about growth, longevity and staying true to who I am while evolving. It's having the freedom to create what I believe in, connecting with people through the music and building something that lasts beyond a hit song."

"If the music can travel the world and still feel authentic to me, that's success."

As our conversation winds down, Projexx leaves one final thought, one that perhaps best captures where he is mentally and creatively today.

"The truth I'm standing in right now is that growth requires letting go," he says thoughtfully. "Every new chapter asks you to leave something behind: old habits, fears, even old versions of yourself."

Rather than chasing outside validation, he has chosen to trust his instincts.

"I'm learning to trust my vision more than the noise. Not every move has to be understood by everybody. Sometimes you just have to stay locked in, keep creating, trust in God and believe that the work will speak when the time is right."

Off the record, that may be the most revealing thing Projexx shared.