Early Life and Musical Roots
Jamar Rolando McNaughton, known by his stage name Chronixx, was born on October 10, 1992, in Spanish Town, Jamaica. He is the son of Selvin McNaughton, a reggae artist known professionally as Chronicle. Growing up in a musically inclined family, Chronixx was exposed to music from a very young age. He began songwriting at the age of five, with his first composition titled “Rice Grain.” By his teenage years, he was producing and building riddims, including the Freezer riddim for Ice Box Records. Chronixx attended St. Catherine High School in Spanish Town, where he further honed his musical talents.
Career Trajectory and Rise to Prominence
Chronixx’s musical journey began in his early teens, recording a gospel track at the age of 11. He gained recognition in the Jamaican music scene by providing harmony vocals for artists such as Lutan Fyah and producing rhythms used by artists like Konshens, Popcaan, and Munga Honorebel. His big break came in 2012 with the release of his mixtape “Start a Fire,” a collaboration with Major Lazer and Walshy Fire. The mixtape received significant attention, propelling Chronixx into the spotlight.
In 2014, Chronixx released his EP “Dread & Terrible,” which topped the Billboard Top Reggae Albums chart and spent 42 consecutive weeks in the top 10. The EP’s success was bolstered by his performances on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” and a concert in Central Park attended by over 5,000 people. The same year, he won multiple awards at the Linkage Awards in New York, including Culture Artist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year.
Major Influences and Artistic Evolution
Chronixx’s music is deeply influenced by Rastafarian teachings, which emphasize spirituality, responsibility, and the importance of education. He integrates these principles into his music, aiming to uplift and inspire his audience. His sound blends traditional reggae with elements of hip-hop, R&B, and dancehall, creating a unique and contemporary style. Chronixx’s debut album, “Chronology,” released in 2017, showcases his versatility and received critical acclaim. The album includes tracks like “Smile Jamaica,” “Majesty,” and “Ghetto Paradise,” reflecting his growth as an artist.
Discography and Notable Works
Albums
- Chronology (2017)
Chronixx’s debut album received a Grammy Award nomination and solidified his place in the global music scene.
EPs
- Dread & Terrible (2014)
This EP topped the Billboard Top Reggae Albums chart and featured hits like “Smile Jamaica” and “Here Comes Trouble.”
Mixtapes
- Start a Fire (2012)
A collaboration with Major Lazer and Walshy Fire that introduced Chronixx to a wider audience.
Singles
- “Somewhere” (2012)
- “Start a Fyah” (2012)
- “Mi Alright” (2013)
- “Alpha and Omega” (2013)
- “Smile Jamaica” (2013)
- “Ain’t No Giving In” (2013)
- “Rain Music” (2013)
- “Perfect Tree” (2014)
- “Prayer” (2014)
- “Play Some Roots” (2015)
- “Capture Land” (2015)
- “Ghetto People” (2015)
- “Light It Up” (2015)
- “Majesty” (2017)
- “Likes” (2017)
- “Skankin Sweet” (2017)
- “Ghetto Paradise” (2017)
- “Spanish Town Rockin” (2017)
- “Sweet Love” (2017)
- “Eternal Light” (2019)
- “Dela Move” (2020)
- “Same Prayer” (feat.. Kabaka Pyramid) (2020)
- “Cool As The Breeze/Friday” (2020)
- “Safe N Sound” (2021)
- “Freedom Fighter” (2021)
- “Never Give Up” (2022)
Collaborations and Cultural Impact
Chronixx has collaborated with several notable artists, including Protoje on the single “Who Knows,” which was certified Silver by the BPI in 2022. He has also worked with international artists such as Joey Bada,appearingonthetrack”BellyoftheBeast”fromBada, appearing on the track “Belly of the Beast” from Bada,appearingonthetrack”BellyoftheBeast”fromBada’s debut album “B4.Da.$$.” Chronixx’s influence extends beyond music; he was featured as the face of Adidas’s Spring 2017 Spezial collection, merging
