Chex$: The Meaning Behind the Name
Chex$, pronounced like “checks” but spelled uniquely, carries a profound meaning rooted in self-worth and empowerment. Originally performing under the name Rytechex, which symbolized “write checks,” Chex$ drew inspiration from Diddy’s iconic line: “Who cares if I write rhymes, I write checks.” This phrase resonated deeply, reflecting a philosophy of accountability, self-reliance, and the hustle to be in control of one’s destiny. Over time, Chex$ shortened the name after encountering mispronunciations during performances, making it both memorable and impactful.
This name embodies a mindset: know your worth, take ownership of your mistakes, and aim to be the one calling the shots. As Chex$ explains, “If you’re the one paying people, you’re the one in charge, whether they like it or not.” It’s a mantra that extends beyond music into life, emphasizing resilience, knowledge, and leadership.
Hometown Roots: New York City’s Influence
Born and raised in New York City, Chex$ has moved across its iconic boroughs, from the Bronx to Staten Island, West Side Harlem, and back to the Bronx. The city’s fast-paced hustle, diverse cultures, and resilience have profoundly shaped his artistry and character.
“In New York, you learn to adapt,” Chex$ shares. “The struggle to make it here gives you the resilience to never quit on yourself.” This blend of grit and adaptability is reflected in his music, capturing the essence of NYC’s vibrant yet challenging environment.
A Versatile Sound: Hip-Hop Meets Lyricism
Chex$ primarily creates hip-hop and rap, with a deep emphasis on lyricism and storytelling. As a self-described lover of poetry and the expressive nature of music, his sound is versatile. He seamlessly blends bangers relatable to hustlers—both legal and illegal—with melodic hooks and bridges, crafting commercially appealing tracks without compromising authenticity.
Beyond hip-hop, Chex$ also delves into Caribbean-inspired music, attributing this versatility to his Puerto Rican heritage. “I try to tell as much truth as possible,” he says. “Just by being authentic, you bring something no one else can.” His music is a fusion of positivity, raw emotion, and diverse influences, catering to a wide audience.
The Spark of Inspiration
Chex$’s journey into music began unexpectedly, inspired by a friend who went by the stage name Chase Green. “He wasn’t trying to act like anyone else; he was just himself,” Chex$ recalls. Watching his friend freestyle sparked an interest in writing, though he admits he wasn’t good at first. Encouragement from Chase Green pushed him to improve, leading to his first open mic performance at Manhattan’s Pyramid Club.
Performing a mix of an original song and a freestyle over a Big L beat, Chex$ captivated the notoriously tough New York crowd. Their encouragement, even after he ran out of bars, solidified his passion for music. “That was all I needed to pursue this dream,” he says.
Musical Influences: A Diverse Palette
Chex$ draws inspiration from an eclectic mix of artists who have shaped his sound and approach to music:
- DMX: The first artist to make him fall in love with hip-hop.
- Jay-Z: For his hustler spirit and business acumen.
- Eminem: For his emotional vulnerability and storytelling.
- 50 Cent: For his fearlessness and resilience.
- Nas: As a role model and master of storytelling.
- Big Pun and Joell Ortiz: Inspirations for Hispanic artists in the genre.
- Kanye West: Proving you don’t have to be “street” to succeed in hip-hop.
- Wu-Tang Clan, The Lox, Dipset: For their lyricism and trendsetting styles.
- New Generation Artists: From Pop Smoke to Drake and Kendrick Lamar, who continue to evolve the genre.
Chex$ also listens to various genres, allowing an open-minded approach that’s felt in his music. “I’m a student of the game,” he explains, blending classic influences with modern cadences and production.
The Power of Teamwork: Kold Mafia
Chex$ is part of Kold Mafia, a tight-knit crew where every member plays a pivotal role. From handling videography to social media management and distribution, the team operates like a well-oiled machine. Chex$ himself focuses on marketing and promotional strategies, ensuring the group’s music reaches the right audience.
“No one man is bigger than the team,” he emphasizes. “We all bring something to the table.” With a dedicated videographer, a skilled producer, and a strategic social media presence, Kold Mafia exemplifies the power of collaboration.
Upcoming Projects and Releases
Looking ahead, Chex$ has an ambitious slate of projects lined up for 2025:
- Solo EP: Featuring carefully curated tracks, Chex$ aims to showcase his versatility and growth.
- Team EP: A collaborative effort with Kold Mafia, highlighting their collective talent.
- Collab EP with H O P: A project that promises dynamic synergy between the two artists.
The solo EP and team EP are already locked and loaded, with two accompanying music videos in production. Fans can expect the first release by Memorial Weekend 2025. In the meantime, there’s plenty of music available on all platforms and the official Kold Mafia YouTube channel.
The Creative Process: Balancing Instinct and Strategy
For Chex$, creating music is an organic process. “I make sure it’s not forced,” he says. Inspiration can strike at any moment, leading him to jot down lyrics or ideas as they come. When working on a beat, he often starts with the hook, allowing the song’s vibe to guide the rest of the process.
If creativity stalls, Chex$ doesn’t hesitate to involve his team. “Sometimes, their perspective adds something I wouldn’t have thought of,” he explains. This collaborative approach ensures each track reaches its full potential.
The Artist’s Journey: Overcoming Self-Doubt
One aspect of Chex$’s journey that fans might not know is the internal battle with self-doubt. “The unknown can be scary,” he admits. “You put in all this work, and what if it doesn’t work?” Despite these fears, Chex$ relies on faith and perseverance, using each challenge as fuel to push forward.
The Message Behind the Music
At its core, Chex$’s music is about empowerment and inspiration. He hopes listeners take away a sense of motivation to chase their dreams relentlessly. “Never let anyone’s negativity hold you back,” he advises. “Be a leader and control your destiny.”
Whether through relatable struggles or uplifting anthems, Chex$ aims to leave a lasting impact, encouraging fans to pursue their passions with the same resilience and determination he embodies.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Chex$
In the coming years, Chex$ envisions achieving financial freedom, creating generational wealth, and breaking cycles—all while staying true to himself. “God willing, I’ll be able to do that through my music,” he says. His ultimate goal is to take care of his loved ones and spread positivity, proving that hard work and faith can turn dreams into reality.
Connect with Chex$
Stay updated with Chex$ and his music journey through the following platforms:
- Linktree: Chex$ Linktree
- Instagram: @outhustleevery1
- YouTube: Kold Mafia
- Kold Mafia Instagram: @koldmafia
- Apple Music (Chex$): Chex$ on Apple Music
- Apple Music (Kold Mafia): Kold Mafia on Apple Music
Chex$ is proof that authenticity, hard work, and a strong team can turn passion into success. With a clear vision and a relentless drive, he’s set to make his mark on the music industry.