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Meet James CN , a rising star in the Zambian music scene, blending rap, lyricism, and heartfelt songwriting into a unique voice for the voiceless. Born as James Chilumba Ngwira, he began his music journey in 2018 and hasn't looked back since. His story is one of resilience, passion, and a relentless pursuit of his dreams. From performing with friends in high school to launching a promising solo career, James CN is carving a space for himself in the global hip-hop landscape. Let’s dive deeper into his world, his inspirations, and his future in music.
Finding His Voice: From Group Efforts to Solo Success
James CN's journey in music began with a group of friends inspired by Zambian rappers like The Fake . Together, they formed a local group called "The Wave" in 2018. The group enjoyed some early success, creating a buzz around town, but disbanded in 2019. For James, this was not an ending but a new beginning. Determined to push forward, he launched his solo career, dropping his debut single “So Much” in 2020, a personal track that reflected the struggles and emotions he was facing at the time.
His first album, “Everything In Time” , became a crucial turning point. “That project allowed me to find my voice,” James says, reflecting on its raw and unfiltered nature. The album’s success fueled his passion to explore deeper themes in his music, and he’s continued to grow ever since. His recent release, “Project 100” , showcases his lyrical prowess with metaphors and punchlines, revealing a more mature and confident artist who is ready to shake the industry.
Evolving Sound: Fusing Rap and Melody
James CN is not just a rapper—he’s a storyteller who doesn’t limit himself to one sound. While rap was his first love, influenced by legends like Eminem and Kendrick Lamar , his music evolved in 2021 when he began experimenting with melodies, drawing inspiration from artists like Juice WRLD and The Kid LAROI . “I fell in love with singing on beats as well,” he explains, embracing a diverse sound that blends rap with melodic elements.
This diversity keeps his music fresh, as James believes in growth and pushing boundaries. His collaborations with producers like Uncle Mar have helped him explore new musical territories, developing a style that’s hard to categorize but easy to connect with. “Some emotions are best experienced, not described,” he says, encouraging fans to listen with open hearts and minds.
Personal Inspirations: From Eminem to Family
As a child, James CN found early inspiration from Eminem , whose complex rhymes and punchlines left a lasting impact. Rapping along to Eminem’s “Groundhog Day” was just the beginning of his deep connection to hip-hop. Over time, his palette expanded to include artists like Drake , The Weeknd , and XXXTentacion , each of whom shaped different facets of his sound.
But beyond music, James is driven by a more personal mission. His fans, whom he affectionately refers to as “family,” are at the core of his work. His goal? To be a voice for the voiceless, offering music that people can lean on in good times and bad. “I’ve always wanted to be that voice my family can rely on,” he says, a sentiment that guides his every creative move.
Looking Ahead: Collaborations and Live Performances
James CN’s musical journey has already seen exciting collaborations, including a notable feature in Los Kubinos’ track “Қыз бала гүл,” which has garnered over 4 million views on YouTube. Looking ahead, he has his eyes set on collaborating with global icons like Drake , Travis Scott , and Billie Eilish , aiming to merge his Zambian roots with global sounds.
Live performances remain one of his greatest joys. “Connecting with fans in real time is priceless,” he shares, recalling moments when young fans asked for his autograph—a humbling reminder of the impact he’s making. His performances offer a raw and emotional connection, allowing fans to feel the depth of his music firsthand.
Conclusion
James CN is more than an artist—he is a beacon of hope for many, a voice for those who need one, and a testament to the power of staying true to your passion. As he continues to grow and evolve, James CN remains focused on his core mission: to inspire and uplift through his music. For aspiring musicians and fans alike, his message is clear: “Never stop going after what you love. If you’re passionate about it, let that passion drive you to greatness.” With his unstoppable drive, James CN is set to leave an indelible mark on the world of music.
