Emerging from the gritty streets of Jersey City, New Jersey, Zae Love Clxtch’s journey has been one of transformation and resilience. His recent tracks—“Fun,” “13,” “Chosen One,” and “Wise”—are more than just songs; they’re pieces of a life story marked by struggle, survival, and an unbreakable love for music. With a powerful message and an even stronger resolve, Zae’s music tells the story of a man who has turned his life around and is now on a mission to share positivity and authenticity with the world.
Growing up in Jersey City wasn’t easy. Zae’s parents came from tough backgrounds as well: his father from Philadelphia and his mother from Jersey City. Although his mother was a positive influence, his relationship with his father was complicated. “When he was around, he was either high or drunk,” Zae recalls, making their relationship strained and challenging. Raised in his grandmother’s home, Zae spent many of his childhood years with his cousins, finding both comfort and complexity in family.
Like many youth from difficult neighborhoods, Zae was drawn into street life at a young age, diving into the streets at just 13. By 20, he found himself locked up, but this experience marked a turning point. Determined to turn his life around, he began to focus on music, a passion he had always carried but had never pursued seriously. “People who heard me back then would tell me I sounded better than a lot of artists out today,” he shares. That encouragement, coupled with a newfound sense of purpose, set him on a journey to make music his career.
Finding His Voice and Crafting His Sound
Music wasn’t just an escape; it was a calling. Zae started with freestyle, gradually shaping his style and rhythm until his sound resonated deeply with those around him. His process is organic, often beginning with a freestyle to instrumentals or type beats. This intuitive approach allows him to explore melodies and themes, shaping each track into a personal expression of his experiences and emotions.
Inspired by legends like Michael Jackson, 2Pac, XXXTentacion, and Juice WRLD, Zae’s music is a blend of storytelling and introspection. His influences remind him of the power of honesty and vulnerability in music. Yet, his greatest inspiration lies closer to home: his parents. Despite their ups and downs, their presence helped shape his journey and inspired his pursuit of something greater.
Zae’s Music: A Reflection of His Life
Each of Zae’s recent tracks offers a window into his world. “Wise” dives into his journey of overcoming mental health challenges, a reflection of his determination to improve and become a stronger person. “Fun” captures a playful side, celebrating what he loves about relationships and connection.
In “13” and “Chosen One,” Zae takes a bolder tone, sharing his goals and aspirations with unapologetic confidence. These tracks resonate as affirmations, pushing him forward in his pursuit of greatness.
Hip-Hop and the Power of Authenticity
Looking at the future of hip-hop, Zae believes that the industry is shifting towards something more genuine. “All those who are frauds gonna have to show their true colors,” he says. He sees the genre moving toward a place where only authentic voices will thrive, and he’s ready to be part of that change.
One of the albums that has impacted him most is Kendrick Lamar’s Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, a work known for its vulnerability and raw truth. Zae sees his own music similarly, as a space to be real and inspire his audience.
Challenges and Triumphs
Though Zae’s journey has been filled with challenges, he’s determined to keep pushing forward. One of the hardest obstacles has been finding genuine people in an industry where support can be hard to come by. But his resolve is unwavering, and he continues to rise above the negativity, grounded by his love for music and the encouragement of his fans.
“Seeing people appreciate my skill, giving me my flowers… that’s one of the most memorable parts of being an artist,” Zae says. Each recognition, every moment of acknowledgment from listeners, serves as motivation to keep going.
The Message Behind the Music
For Zae Love Clxtch, music is more than a career—it’s a calling. His message is clear: be real, be righteous, and be a leader for positive change. Through his work, he hopes to inspire listeners to stay true to themselves, no matter the hardships they face.
With a new EP titled GTTG (Greater Than the G.O.A.T.) on the way, Zae has big plans for the future. Social media is crucial to reaching a wider audience, and he’s committed to sharing his journey with fans across platforms. He’s ready to bring more music and share his message with those who need it most.
From Jersey City streets to the world stage, Zae Love Clxtch is redefining what it means to be a hip-hop artist. Driven by passion, purpose, and an unstoppable love for music, he’s a true force in today’s industry—one whose legacy is only just beginning. Stay tuned as he continues to inspire, uplift, and change the game, one track at a time.
