Jamaican Reggae singer Protoje has released a steady stream of singles and albums that have topped various reggae charts across the globe, including the massive reggae hit “Who Knows” , his 2014 collaboration with singer Chronixx.
His 2018 album ‘A Matter Of Time’ which has recently been released on vinyl speaks on themes of politics, corruption, religion, pollution and inequality, but are balanced with positive assertions on childhood, education, family, keeping spirit alive and philosophies on living well.
Protoje and Chronixx’s perfect contrasting and complimentary voices are typified on the tracks ‘No Guarantee’ and ‘Flames’, both featured on the album.
With over 13 million streams last year and over 156 million YouTube views, Protoje is a forefront figurehead of an exciting resurgence of conscious, organic music in Jamaica known as ‘The Reggae Revival’.
Protoje states he wants to “elevate reggae culture and the world’s perception of it”. He chats to Pride about his album, where reggae stands in the music industry and more.
Tell me about the new album, what was your inspiration?
To make something fresh that didn’t sound like traditional Jamaican music and to try to push the genre forward and make something that would have a feel of Jamaica but make a global impact.
What makes this album special to you?
The fact that it sounds different and I had the freedom creatively and financially to do things I wanted to do on this record.
What is the reason for the album title ‘ a matter of time’ ?
It has an ominous feel to it, giving a sense of caution and hope at the same time.
Do you have a favourite track on the album?
It differs from time to time and situations. So I have a favourite song I write, listen and perform to.
There are a lot of themes that you’ve explored in this album. Which was your favourite theme or hardest theme to explore and why?
I don’t really look at it like ‘hard’, because it’s really just me expressing the thoughts that come in my head.
How was it working with Chronixx?
It’s always fun working with him. He just sits in studio, trying to feel what I’m trying to express in these songs. I feel like he does a good job at conveying what I am trying to say.
Do you have any other features on the album?
Yes, Mortimer, who is signed to Winta’s label, Overstand Entertainment.
Who would you like to collaborate with?
Anderson Pack, Rihanna, Kehlani and The Black Keys.
What is your opinion on reggae in the music industry? Do you feel the pressure to stay relevant and mix with other genres ?
I think Reggae music is in a good place right now with artistes like Chronixx, Kabaka Pyramid Jah9 and others and then there are other upcoming artist’s too like Lila Iké, Koffee and Sevana who’s making an impact. Music is not something I feel pressured about. I just make music how it sounds in my head, I don’t worry about any other aspect after that.
What music are you into at the moment?
I’m listening to some older stuff like Felakuté and local music.
What are you looking forward to this year?
Spending more time touring and promoting singles from the album.
Protoje’s album ‘A Matter of Time’ is available to stream now
