Source: Instagram @pjmorton
It’s been a little over a year since PJ Morton moved back to New Orleans. The keyboardist for Maroon 5/solo artist moved back to his hometown with hopes of creating the “New Orleans Motown” starring the city’s most talented artists. Since he’s been back, the 35-year-old has been putting in work. From heading his own label, Morton Records, to performing his residency at New Orleans’ historic Blue Nile, to hosting a regular night at the Three Keys inside the Ace Hotel, Peej (as I like to call him) is one talented, busy man.
Early Tuesday, he released his new single, “Claustrophobic,” featuring fellow New Orleans native, Pell. PJ dubs the song as the “anthem for the dreamer and a message to all of the doubters” because it’s all about not conforming to the expectations of others, especially those in the music industry. PJ sat down with Saint Heron and explained his inspiration behind the song:
“Initially, it was of out of frustration,” he said. “I’m an artist who has chosen, outside of being apart of Maroon 5, to follow a path that is not necessarily the most popular one. Those in positions of power are usually trying to adjust you and tailor you to fit what they would like to sell to the masses.”
“Claustrophobic” is the first single off of PJ’s upcoming album, Gumbo—the first album he’s created since moving back to New Orleans. It’s slated to drop in April, but until then, get your first taste of his Gumbo with this new joint featuring Pell.