Kxng Izem Talks Neo-Reggae And New ‘Wildfire’ EP

Kxng Izem is a name that has been making rounds on the Dancehall scene, and for good reason. The Kingston, Jamaica native recently won the Best Breakthrough Artist award at Dubwise’s inaugural Dubby’s and has received co-signs from the likes of Protoje, Royal Blu, Blvk H3ro, and more.

His recently released EP Wildfire is the latest project to champion the Neo-Reggae sound and comes complete with 7 music visuals showcasing the artist’s unique style and sound on a multifaceted level. The title is fitting considering the fact that Izem is blazing a trail in the game in the most unexpected way.

We sat down with the emerging star to discuss music, inspirations, and plans for the future. Get familiar with the young Kxng.

First things first: how would you define Neo-Reggae?

Neo reggae is a sound that reflects our current generation’s appeal and appetite for music. I term my music as such because the root of what I’m doing is reggae, not just the sound but the philosophy which is also influenced by Rastafari, which means every song upholds a standard of that nature. This generation of artists however is not only influenced by roots music but also, dancehall, afrobeats, hiphop and RnB. As artists, we have a duty to reflect and represent our time. I merge all of these genres together with Reggae and Dancehall being predominantly the character of my songs and the lingua being patois, which gives you “Neo Reggae”.

Tell us more about the Wildfire project. What influenced the EP and the decision to release 7 music videos?

The Wildfire project is my first studio recorded project and the aim is to have Kxng Izem’s sound and the brand spread globally, steadily but uncontrollable. It is my introduction to the industry and the world in extension, it reflects who I am and what I am about. The project is independently produced and released by my label Ten24 Music and it has been growing every day since its release. I felt like it was the right time to release the project, I wanted people to hear a reggae/Rastafari artiste in a different way. I wanted to connect with the new generation so I gave them a different sound with the familiar messages of love, liberation, confidence, unity, and romance of course.

As it relates to the music videos I wanted to go all the way with the project. I wanted everyone to get a visual representation of what I’m saying on the tracks so that they can easily digest the messages.

There’s another video on the way as well. “UNO” featuring Royal Blu.

Up! Also, congrats on your Dubbys win. What was that like and how has it inspired you?

Thanks a lot, I appreciate it. The dubby’s meant a lot to me. I always went to Dubwise events in Kingston and wish that one day I’d be on that stage, that event made me develop a stronger love for reggae music and so to have been nominated was a great joy and to have won was and still is an amazing feeling. I’m always inspired but it definitely is keeping me motivated to push harder to acquire more of these achievements, I strive for excellence lol.

Bless. What are your upcoming plans for the summer?

For the summer I’m looking to do more performances, I have the “Wildfire Live” virtual performance coming up soon. The last video from the project will be out in a couple of weeks and I’m also plotting to release 2 roots reggae singles along with music videos this summer.

You can find @KxngIzem on all social and streaming platforms. Stream Wildfire on all platforms and the visuals on YouTube.