Protoje, born Oje Ken Ollivierre, is a prominent Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter whose career has significantly shaped contemporary reggae music. He first gained attention with his 2005 mixtape “Lyrical Overdose Volume 1,” which showcased his hip-hop influences. However, it was his transition to reggae that defined his career, particularly after joining Don Corleon Records in 2010. His debut album, “The Seven Year Itch,” released in January 2011, featured the hit single “Arguments,” which propelled him into the Jamaican music scene and established his reputation as a leading artist.
Following his debut, Protoje released his second album, “The 8 Year Affair,” in February 2013. The album included the popular singles “Who Dem a Program” and “Kingston Be Wise,” the latter of which became a viral sensation in Jamaica and was featured in the video game Grand Theft Auto V. This exposure helped Protoje gain international recognition, and he cited reggae legends like Ini Kamoze and Black Uhuru as key influences in his work.
In March 2015, Protoje released his third album, “Ancient Future,” which debuted at the top of the Billboard Top Reggae Albums chart. The album included the hit collaboration “Who Knows” with Chronixx, further solidifying his status in the reggae genre. His subsequent projects, including the Grammy-nominated “A Matter of Time” in 2018 and the critically acclaimed “In Search Of Lost Time” in 2020, showcased his evolution as an artist and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of reggae music.
Protoje’s latest work, “Third Time’s The Charm,” released in September 2022, has continued to receive accolades, including a Grammy nomination. His partnership with RCA Records has allowed him to maintain creative control while mentoring emerging artists under his In.Digg.Nation label. Protoje’s contributions to reggae music not only highlight his talent but also his dedication to the genre’s growth and global reach.
