My Kingston — Protoje
What are your earliest memories of Kingston?
It would have to be national stadium. My dad started carrying me to Champs since I was 2 years old, and we would drive in from Santa Cruz almost every Saturday for a track meet.
What do you miss when you are not in Kingston?
There is just something about the city that calls you back… Remember I am a country yute still, so I love going to the country when I get a chance. So when I’m in the country and I get inspired it’s like the city calls me back to come and express to it. Kingston is a place where you have ample oppurtunity to express yourself.
Who has your been your musical inspiration?
My mother Lorna Bennett, because she decided to give up her career in singing to make a better life for me and my sister. So me doing this is a continuation of what she started.
And what’s the best thing about being a performer?
Getting to perform your stuff in front of people and to see the joy and emotions that they have. It does something to me when I’m on stage and see people feeling the music. Also as a performer you have the opportunity to inspire someone and maybe change their lives. I know music has changed my life so I give thanks for the ones before me who inspired the change.
What are your favourite home comforts?
I would have to say just being in my own space in my room. I like to spend time by myself and reflect, so when I get home it’s just to be in isolation with my speakers playing.
What would you do if you were mayor (of Kingston) for a day?
I woulda make nuff ah the land that we have just put down be used for some farming.
Share with us the title of the last book you read.
Walter Rodney, The Groundings with my Brothers.
What’s your middle name?
Ken
And the last bit of music that stirred your soul?
Winston McAnuff — Roamer
What was your last bit of retail therapy?
Hmmm… I just bought a guitar; long time I want one
Which cologne are you currently splashing?
None
What is your preferred beverage?
Coconut water
What was your most memorable meal in Kingston?
I dunno… probably something from East Japanese.
What are your current projects?
I’ve just finished my debut album The Seven Year Itch with producer Don Corleon, and am currently promoting a track with Ky-mani Marley called Rasta Love.
The album should be out in the first quarter of next year.
What upsets you?
People being unprofessional.
Name the last three places visited on holidays.
I haven’t taken a vacation in awhile…
Share some places in your black book.
Black book? Whats a black book? (laughs)
What’s your advice to a first-time visitor to Kingston?
Listen more than you speak. You also have to be very aware of your surroundings in Kingston.
Share with us why it’s important for local musicans to get international exposure?
Its a matter of the market. When the music is spread internationally it just means that additional ears are hearing the music, so more mouths can speak about it. In this day and age your music always has a chance to reach places you never thought about it reaching. And from the perspective on the nation it will only bring more attention to Jamaica.
What’s your philosophy?
I&I… each one teach one.