Roxstar reflects on ‘Pain’ of music journey
Making it in the music business can be tough, especially for artistes just starting out. Roxstar has found that out since launching his recording career four years ago.
In Pain, his latest song, the deejay/rapper reflects on his experiences in an industry that can be ruthless. The single is produced by Ziggyonthekeyboard.
“Pain was inspired from personal experience over the years of me doing music with disc jockeys, producers and people in media. I was going through a phase where I felt it was best to be heard and send a message where everyone can relate to,” he said. “The music business is only tough if you make it, I try my best to work with people who are genuinely interested in my craft which doesn’t put me in a predicament to be another artiste on a shelf.”
The uptempo Pain is similar in tone to many of his previous singles, which are a mix of dancehall and hip hop. Born Roxroy Redley in New York, Roxstar spent some of his formative years in Jamaica where he developed an appreciation for artistes from different eras, such as Dexta Daps, Kranium, Bob Marley, Dennis Brown and John Holt.
Since returning to New York, he has recorded and released a number of dancehall/hip hop-fused songs including Let’s Go, Vibes For The Summer and Top Balla.
He has found getting the big hit single is not as easy many people think.
“The most challenging aspect is persuading DJs to play your music or even ‘endorsement’. This is a big issue I feel most upcoming artistes face,” said Roxstar.
Pain is also the title of his first EP, scheduled for release this summer.
Howard Campbell