The late rapper and Queens, NY native Chinx is remembered and survived by friends and family. Last night at Stage 48 in New York City, fellow rappers, friends and family gathered to support the listening of Chinx’s upcoming album “Welcome To JFK” which was hosted by Shaheem Reid.
Unfortunately the summer didn’t start off the way we all would have liked, especially in the music industry. The late rapper and NY native Chinx lost his life in mid May shortly after the release of the summer hit “Off The Rip”. Musically, the rapper will continue to live on due to the fact that he is set to release one of the most anticipated albums of the summer. “Welcome To JFK” is Chinx’s first album.
Hosted by Shaheem Reid, this is was an amazing gathering that consisted of so many of Chinx’s friends and family. Everyone paid homage to the late MC. Along with the records that were played from the upcoming album, DJ Amazin was considerate enough to bless the attendees with late songs and remixes that featured Chinx. Fellow rappers/friends DJ SpinKing, Vado and Maino showed face to pay respect to not only Chinx but to his family members. Chinx’s wife Janelli, his two daughters and his son who is carrying on the government name of Chinx (Lionel Pickens) were the stars who shined the brightest throughout the entire event.
Chinx’s manager was kind enough to grab the mic and say some kind words in regards to her artist:
“I feel Chinx gave New York a sound with this album. . . I know you won’t be able to appreciate it now but you will. Chinx was giving lessons”
The first record dropped by DJ Amazin was titled “Experimental”. Then he went on to play crowd favorite “Far Rock” which is a song dedicated to the part of Queens Chinx is from, Far Rockaway. From there, DJ Amazin kept spinning the 1’s and 2’s as he played “The Other Side” Ft. Ty Dolla $ign, “Yay” and the song that got his Chinx’s wife involved in a little word play titled “Thug Love”.
There was also an early video premier from the label and Chinx’s family. Before he passed, the song “On Your Body” was set to be the first single off the album. Unfortunately Chinx wasn’t able complete the video. That didn’t stop his family though. The video showcases wife Janelli, her daughters and younger son paying respect to their loved one but also showing a sense of togetherness in Miami. A heart felt video and presentation lead into the the last song “Die Young” Ft. French Montana. This song sent family members and close friends into tears as the melody and lyrics struck a chord.
As unfortunate as it may seem with Chinx not being able to celebrate the release of his album, the hard work and dedication he put into the project definitely did not go unnoticed last night. Label reps and Chinx’s manager said they have enough material from Chinx to make ten of twelve more albums.
“Welcome To JFK” will be available for pre-order July 17 and will be available everywhere on August 14.