This next exceptional versatile artist is giving us the R&B we are yearning for! Inspired by Ty Dolla $ign, Miguel, Atlanta trap rappers, and the late hip-hop artist Speaker Knockerz, - - The Neo Elite presents to you, the charismatic harmonious R&B/Hip-Hop artist Projex Santana.
Growing up, Projex lived in D.C for nine years before relocating to a small neighborhood in Prince George’s County, Maryland. “That’s where I became a man, and that’s who I put on for,” Projex stated. As an adolescent, he invested a good deal of time playing the drums in a two-man band with his neighbor who played guitar. However, as Go-go music emerged in the DMV, Projex found himself joining an early Go-go band as a vocalist. “I wasn’t really good at the time, but it happened,” Projex stated. Afterward, he joined “New Action” a band originating out of PG County playing the congas and timbales. New Action went on to receive great success and was nominated for a few categories at the Go-go Awards as well.
From band to band, Projex was primarily focused on his percussion artistry, but before long, he began assisting with writing songs. “I always knew I was creative when it comes to writing, I would freestyle all the time in the shower or my mom's car,” he stated. Soon enough, Projex went from helping his band members to helping friends in the studio. Shortly after, he realized he could simply write for himself instead of others.
Along his journey, he shares with us that his greatest accomplishment by far has been the connections he has made along the way and the release of his acoustic version of his single “Good Love." In all, “The small things throughout my path, make an accomplishment as a whole.” Projex stated. On the other end, his biggest challenge has been recording, finding the right producer, and being consistent; to overcome this obstacle, Projex uses self-motivation, and the right attitude, “I have a family to feed, and I love making music, I just have to get out there,” he stated.
When it comes to his musical style, Projex wears several hats and is devoted to staying authentic to himself. Overall, his music is rather “felt than heard.” He wishes to target everyone no matter their age and writes to create feel-good music for all.
Two years from now, Projex has a goal to begin touring, selling out arenas, breaking a streaming record, but for the most part, providing a better life for his family. This Thursday, Projex is also releasing his new single “On Me” produced by Shemon Luster and Danielson. Expect to hear from his alter ego rap star “Slick Boy”!
Aside from music, he’s also a father to a beautiful daughter and baby boy. When it comes to balancing being a dad and an artist, he finds himself involving his daughter more times than not in his art. Whether it's adding her on audio or letting her jump in videos, the balance is always equilibrium. Besides his greatest joy (his children), Projex is also passionate about family, friends, and riding motorcycles.
When it comes to advice for aspiring artists, Projex tells them to stop spending money on studio time and learn how to record and mix yourself. In closing, “Stop wasting your money and invest in visuals and promotions.”
Read more about Projex Santana with a closer look below.
If you can hang out with any celebrity for a full day, who would it be and why?
I would hang out with Travis Scott because he’s creativity is great!
We’re close in age so hopefully we’re able to catch a vibe and talk about music, our personal lives, and our different cultures.
If you didn't have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
If I didn’t have to sleep, I would ride my bike (motorcycle) or record more music.
What’s one of your biggest pet peeves?
I have two! When others insult my intelligence and people who are incompetent.
Would you rather Win $50,000 or let your best friend win $500,000?
I would let my best friend win $500,000, he may not give me the money physically, but at the end of the day he won’t watch me struggle either.
If you're having a bad day, what is something you often do to turn things around?
If I’m having a bad day to turn things around, I will pray on it and vent to my friends.
What artists/songs do you currently have on replay?
Currently, I’m listening to Nicole Bus “You”, Neo Soul artist Amber Mark, and my all time favorite Maxwell.
Magnified Topic of the Week: Projex Santana’s “Good Love” single featuring Billi X
Projex Santana’s “Good Love” is inspired by Projex’s feelings regarding a past relationship with an ex. Although he waited two years to release this tune due to fatherhood, work, and health matters. The saying “Great things take time” sums up this scenario perfectly! If you're looking to hear Projex mesmerizing smooth sailing voice, be sure to tune into “Good Love” on streaming platforms and watch/listen to the amazing acoustic version featuring Billi X below!
Written by Dejah Moné