His 2014 release, was intriguing as it was innovative, titled “Dread & Terrible” topped the US Billboard and iTunes reggae charts instantly. One of the tracks, “Here Comes Trouble,” caught the ear of late night host Jimmy Fallon resulting in Chronixx and the Zincfence Redemption Band’s appearance on The Tonight Show.
The Roots
Fronting a musical revolution to reintroduce youth to roots and culture, Chronixx is igniting a new passion through the reggae generation. Born Jamar Rolando McNaughton, Chronixx was exposed to dancehall and reggae from a young boy.
Chronixx, who was once known as Lil’ Chronicle after his father, grew up singing and writing music from a very early age, as early as five years old he recalls. He began his career in his mid-teen years in background and harmonizing vocals, as well as production assistant for several artists. In his early twenties, the artist released “Hooked on Chronixx.” This EP helped him get his music out there with his penchant for lyrics promoting anti-war themes, romantic love, and resiliency in times of oppression.
His 2014 release, was intriguing as it was innovative, titled “Dread & Terrible” topped the US Billboard and iTunes reggae charts instantly. One of the tracks, “Here Comes Trouble,” caught the ear of late night host Jimmy Fallon resulting in Chronixx and the Zincfence Redemption Band’s appearance on The Tonight Show. This was BIG for the aspiring group. Followed by another career building performance in New York’s Central Park in front of thousands including Rolling Stones front man, Mick Jagger.
Since then, he has released several singles and been featured with other artists, such as Major Lazer, Joey Badass, and more. In his long awaited 2016 release, “Roots & Chalice,” Chronixx collaborated with Brooklyn’s Federation Sound and they did not disappoint. His recent release “Majesty,” stays true to his singer-songwriter vibe while giving a glimpse into his upcoming 2017 album, Chronology.
The Musical Influence
Chronixx grew up around legendary Jamaican musicians the likes of Gregory Isaacs and Burro Banton, but it was his father’s guidance that led the way in creating his own music and forging his own sound.
The Sound
The video for “Majesty,” shot in Jamaica, shows Chronixx serenading his partner against a luscious backdrop of the island. He samples a bit of Otis Gayle’s “I’ll Be Around” and creates a masterful blend of old school roots with new age reggae.
He sings:
“Oh girl, I wanna let you know (woman, let you know)
That when all is done and all is said (all is done, all is said)
You deserve that crown upon your head, woman”
Praised as the return of reggae, Chronixx does not disappoint. His song “Here Comes Trouble,” sparked his ascendancy. His powerful call for the recruitment of the enlightened to get up/stand up and join the spiritual army.
He sings:
“Waving the banner red, green, and gold
It is such an honor prophecies unfold
Discovered on stones, and trees, and scrolls
And even in the stories that Jesus told
Rasta youth must inherit the earth”