As a New Jersey native through and through, it fills me with great pride to put on for those that are from the same state as me. It fills me with even greater pride to put on for those from the Garden State that look like me. In recent years, I’ve seen the rise of Michael B. Jordan, SZA and Fetty Wap just to name a few. However, there is nothing that gives me greater joy than highlighting artists of color that are not only from New Jersey, but are also from the same area code as me. The talented songwriter, Nija Charles, grew up in Union, New Jersey before becoming the songwriter that has collaborated with a lot of your favorite rappers, singers and producers. Now based in Los Angeles, Nija started her career as a producer before gaining traction through her Instagram feed.
Only nineteen years old, the producer turned songwriter has worked with the likes of Boi-1da, Diplo and Murda Beatz. Most notably, she’s earned writing credits on Lecrae‘s All Things Work Together, Cardi B‘s Invasion of Privacy and The Carter’s Everything Is Love. When asked about the recent work that she’s done with Cardi B, Charles said, “I still am just super happy about the outcome of these records.” Going forward, there is no ceiling for what she can accomplish. Most recently, Charles has been seen in Atlanta working and recording. No one’s sure what’s next for the New Jersey native, but we are sure that whatever she touches will be fire. Who knows? She may be working on her own music in the near future. For now, check her feature on Lecrae’s “Lucked Up”.
