RAWJ - DIMEMOND OF THE WEEK - OCTOBER 31st 2016

NAME: Raj Khella aka RAW J

BORN: Born in Prince George BC, raised in Surrey BC

AGE: 22 

OCCUPATION: N/A

It wasn't too long ago we did feature RawJ on the Dimemond Blog where we discussed and focused on his latest music project, Kush God. However, we felt that RawJ had a lot more to share when it came to him, fully introducing not only his music, but also recognizing him as an overall creative individual who needs some shine in Vancouver. He has a lot more to offer when it comes to creating his own lane of sound, lyrics and production. Not only does he possess a very unique sound structure, he is also affiliated with the 2506 Sound movement, that we have featured multiple times in show casing their brand, the studio they have began build, as well as various music projects that have been released. With that being said, you can definitely catch RawJ on tracks with some familiar names such as Swisslizz, SpaceH, Produced By Shah, and as well the growing young artist out of Toronto, Pressa.

As we continue to share RawJ's story, his music presence in the city is what makes him truly stand out the most. 

RawJ's music journey started around 2011 (the same year he graduated from L.A Matheson High School), but he started publicly releasing music in 2012. The music he originally started to create was from a producer and production level, until he started to evolve into the more verbal department of music. He even recalls when he first released his very first mixtape and rap project, The Swag Mixtape. But his very first public project in 2012, was Mr. Rawjers, which withheld 27 tracks! We mentioned in RawJ's Kush God article, that almost all music project RawJ releases, averages about anywhere between 13-16 tracks, so you can only imagine how much music RawJ has recorded, and not released! He's even admitted, throughout his experience of creating music thus far, he's able to articulate and express his lyrics in one take at most sessions.

RawJ also shares his process of writing is evolving slowly, and he finds that phrase 'quality over quantity' best describes his growth in his writing.  While expressing and sharing how his process within music and sound is growing, not just within his own work, but also through collaboration with his affiliates of 2506, Swisslizz, he admits it is hard to find real artists to work with.

When DM asked RawJ who are some of the artists in the industry he looks up to and admires for being an inspiration, he said one artist in particular, Young L, was an immediate response! Young L is a predominant artist that represents the Bay Areas's uprising in music, as he was apart of the big "Vans" single, as well pushing the clothing brand Pink Dolphin out, when it first made its appearance in the streetwear industry. RawJ says that Young L is an inspiration for him, as he appreciates that his lyrics are "carefree" and his "beats were always popping".

One of the most inspiring aspects of RawJ, that not many listeners may know is that RawJ's main partner in production, is his own younger brother, who goes by the name of I.Q Beats, and RawJ is his biggest fan, as they have a library worth of collaborative beats made, as well as archived songs!

What does Dimemond Mentality mean to you? Do you think it will be successful?

"Shout out Dimemond Mentality. Waking up this morning was a success, so we’re successful right now!!"

What do you enjoy about Vancouver?

"Kushgod Kushgod. Next Question."

As a persistent artist within Vancouver at the moment, what is your input on the progression of the music rise within Vancouver, in terms of urban music?

"Vancouver is whack.  Music scene wise, that is. Most of the people in power (DJ’s, Hosts, Promoters, Sound Engineers…etc.) are bougie azz hell. With little cooperation from the pretentious ego of these ‘gatekeepers’ it is impossible to progress as a city, let alone an artist. It’s sad really."

What do you think the current music culture within Vancouver brings to the table opposing a city such as Toronto? What do you think Vancouver music culture lacks, but has the capacity to reach level of competitive and attractive sound?

"I can’t speak for all of Vancouver, but RawJ brings fun-loving, free-spirit, ORIGINAL turn up music for the streets of Surrey; that raw shit. Vancouver music culture lacks exactly that… culture. It is a very small, almost intimate, city. Therefore an artist has to blow up first for the opportunity to put Vancouver on the map to appear."

What's been your most memorable moment since having released music in the last few years and why?

"Most memorable moment this year was performing at Republic nightclub with the 2506 fam. Just because it’s like the most popping club at night in the Summer.  Girls everywhere, all over. Very lit. Also, the DISTRACTED video shoot was a memorable day because it was the first time I got to play in an arcade. Pivotal moment. Yes."

If OVO Sound management called you and said they would like to sign you and provide a pathway for you to a higher wave and audience, would you take it? If so why, if not why?

"No Comment."

Do you have any aspiring role models you look up to? Why?

"I look up to the future me. There is a lot I’m yet to accomplish as Raw J the KushGod, and I hope for everyone to join me in my journey as an artist."

If you could potentially choose any career (if you were given the opportunity handed to you), what would it be (other than being an artist of course)?

"No idea, maybe something with dangerous animals: a wild cat trainer or something."

Considering that DM decided that RawJ needed more of a focused spotlight on his identity and who he is in Vancouver, we are sure this won't be our last time sharing his name on this platform, and collaborating! His sound is continuously progressing (like every artist should be), and what is fascinating about RawJ and his point of view on his music, is that he is honest about where his growth and progression is going. He's shared with DM "I don't classify myself, I don't have a sound yet". The statement resonated a huge appreciation, and even bigger respect for RawJ, as he is very humble about where he is, and where he is aiming to go! He is in his own lane, and running at his own speed, and knowing how much music he works on the daily, it won't be very long until RawJ represents Vancity on a national level, and hopefully a global one too!

Keep grindin' RawJ! 

RAWJ'S ASPIRING AFFIRMATION:

"Ayyyy its Rawjee Baby, baby. Peace & Love to all. ACHOO?! Bless bless."

Follow RawJ on Social Media:

RawJ on Facebook

RawJ on Twitter

RawJ on Youtube

RawJ on SoundCloud