Firstly, if you’re a visitor of Muphoric Sounds, you’d know notable artists are selected based on what they are bringing differently to the stage. Baltimore native, CJ, who appeared on Raphael Saadiq‘s last album The Way I See It on the song “Never Give You Up” (with Stevie Wonder) is just a young lad of 21-years-old, and is destined for a strong musical career. Watch the video below, where CJ is interviewed by DJ Driis (aka Idris Elba aka Stringer Bell aka Hot Man!). The Package Mixtape produced by Salaam Remi and DJ Driis, is a preview of what’s to come from CJ on J Records this summer. The album is produced by Bangladesh and written by CJ and will feature collaborations with Raphael Saadiq, Rico Love, Dre and Vidal, KP and Malay (Ghet-O-Vision) and Marsha Ambrosius. It highlights the extent of his range – he has an amazing voice (remnants of Marvin Gaye are present in his delivery and harmonies) and he also plays piano. While The Package Mixtape is very commercial, I thoroughly enjoyed how he has sprinkled in the classics (i.e. Don Blackman‘s “Heart’s Desire”), all the while keeping it commercial enough for teens and older people to enjoy equally.

Check out my favs below and tell me what you think of this new artist. The Package Mixtape is available for free download here.

“She’s a Problem”

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“We Can Get It In”

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