KJ(!), an artist hailing from Utah, brings a unique blend of Alternative Hip-Hop, Indie R&B, and Pop Rap to the scene. His music, released under Rock Ya Mountains Music Group, resonates with influences from artists like Childish Gambino, Mac Miller, Andre 3000, and Kendrick Lamar. KJ(!) is not just a rapper; he’s a storyteller who weaves narratives with unflinching honesty, dedication to craft, and a flair for the musical and dramatic. The exclamation point in his name symbolizes doing everything to the fullest, creating an outsized character that makes us all feel moved and understood. It’s a declaration of himself that cannot be silenced or hedged.
Toxic is more than a song; it’s a reflection on a tumultuous period. Born from the chaos of the early days of the COVID-19 lockdown and an earthquake in Utah, Toxic captures the essence of a time marked by panic, self-criticism, and artistic exploration. The lyrics delve into personal struggles, exploring themes of toxicity, self-criticism, and the difficulty of cutting people off. The chorus, sung in a falsetto-y style, adds a melodic touch to the hard-hitting verses. The second verse, inspired by ROTD 3’s “Self Love,” takes a clear and impactful approach, avoiding excessive abstraction. With the addition of harmonies and melodic dubs in a post-801s revision, Toxic transformed into a piece of art with beautiful harmonies, making it easier to listen to and elevating it to new heights.
