When he studied mass communication at the Northern Caribbean University (NCU) several years ago ZJ Chrome had no idea that he would be responsible for some of the biggest hits locally and internationally.

Today, ZJ Chrome has risen to become one of the most sought-after music producers, one who is very hands-on with his productions.

His latest work, the Circuit rhythm, is slated for release via ONErpm on today, Friday, July 25.

Circuit rhythm (CR203 Records) is led by the first single, Vybz Kartel’s Boom, which was released in June. The official audio has so far racked up more than 371,000 views on YouTube.

“The feedback to the Vybz Kartel song was just what I expected. The ladies love the energy, the hard-core vibe, and, of course, the raw, raunchy dancehall side of it,” ZJ Chrome told the Jamaica Observer’s Splash in an interview on Thursday.

The Circuit rhythm also features Circuit by Sean Paul, The Wall by Teejay, Woah by Ding Dong, Gone for Money by Roze Don, and Outside by Soun Bwoii.

ZJ Chrome explained the inspiration behind the Circuit rhythm project.

“I wanted to drop a rhythm people could really dance to. Playing at events all over the world I noticed the dancing vibe was kinda missing. DJs would have to go back for the older songs for that, so that’s where Circuit rhythm comes in,” he states.

Getting some artistes involved in the project wasn’t as easy as ZJ Chrome would’ve hoped.

“This one wasn’t easy at all; it’s not like before. Some artistes say they’re gonna record but after a few calls, nothing. Not everyone though, some are still left to record; so look out for part 2 of the project,” he said.

Since he began producing music in 2007 ZJ Chrome has released more than 20 rhythm projects.

“Juggling is my thing,” he told Splash. “I’ve never really had much luck with singles, and what’s dancehall without a proper juggling? I’ve honestly lost count, but I’d say I’ve produced over 20 rhythms. Probably hundreds of songs by now.”

ZJ Chrome recalled his very first production.

“Being a DJ, it was a natural evolution for me to get into music production. You fall in love with the music, start playing it, then you want to create it. The first song I ever produced was Busy Signal’s The Remix that never came out. But the first official release was the Chromium rhythm,” ZJ Chrome shared.

Said he: “Right now I’m loving music more than ever. The variety of artistes, sounds, and productions are amazing. In the beginning it was trap vs dancehall, but now we’ve balanced the trap sound with hard-core dancehall vibe. So overall I love where it’s at.”

Originally from Clarendon, ZJ Chrome (real name Shaun Chabal) is one of the top-flight jocks at ZIP 103 FM. He is also a director with the Strictly 2K party series.

He attended Glenmuir High School and later moved to Mandeville, Manchester, for college.

Among the hit songs that he has produced are Bicycle by Vybz Kartel; Paper Loving by Christopher Martin; Clarks by Vybz Kartel, Popcaan and Vanessa Bling; and Cheaters Prayer by Christopher Martin.