Bold, unfiltered, and unapologetic,Jackie Art steps into the spotlight with“Playground Rules”, the first single from his upcoming EPReminder (out October 24). Fresh off being named one of theTop 20 most compelling Calgariansby the Calgary Herald in January 2025, Jackie continues to bridge two worlds in his music — the raw grit of his London, UK roots and the drive of his Canadian come-up.
“Playground Rules” hits like an anthem, packed with sharp bars and a hook built for resilience: “Get knocked down, watch me get back up / Homie ten toes tough.” Produced by Rajah Beats, who has crafted tracks for the likes of Chris Brown, Tory Lanez, Dave East, and many others, the song showcases Jackie’s lyrical ferocity, grime-infused delivery, and unshakable spirit, making it both a personal statement and a universal rallying cry.
For Jackie Art, music isn’t just for playlists — it’s survival, ambition, and connection. With “Playground Rules” setting the tone, Reminder is ready to show the world why he’s one of Canada’s most exciting emerging voices, determined to grind, shine, and leave a lasting mark.
Jackie has been steadily building his sound, performing locally, and gaining recognition along the way. In Fall 2024, he took home 3rd prize in Canada’s Walk of Fame Emerging Artist program — a milestone that reflects his dedication and growing presence in the music scene. With each release, Jackie is carving out a reputation as more than just a rapper, but a cultural voice for resilience and ambition. His music connects the underground energy of grime with the hunger of Canadian hip hop, positioning him as an artist unafraid to take risks, push boundaries, and represent where he comes from.
For people just discovering you through “Playground Rules,” how would you describe Jackie Art in your own words?
I’d describe myself as raw, honest, and versatile. I like to bring grit and energy to my music but also keep it real with my storytelling. At the core, I’m an artist who wants you to feel something—whether that’s the hype from a hard-hitting track or the reflection that comes with something more personal. ‘Playground Rules’ is me coming out swinging, showing people that I’m here to leave a mark.”
You were born and raised in London, England and transplanted to Canada at age 10. How has growing up between two worlds shaped the way you see life — and hip hop?
Growing up between England and Canada has been an incredible experience filled withs trials, tribulations, and triumphs. The dramatic shift in culture and hip-hop music that I encountered not only expanded my mind but it ultimately defined who I am today, becoming the best of both worlds and developing a higher level of understanding people, media and societies.
When did music shift from being something you loved to something you had to do?
Sadly, it took losing someone incredibly close to me who I considered a little brother to really discover how much music helped me grieve and process things. We connected heavily on hip-hop/rap music and through my grieving process I fell in love with the act of rapping, writing songs and letting my emotions roam free.
You’ve been recognized as one of Calgary’s Top 20 Most Compelling Calgarians and placed 3rd in the Canada’s Walk of Fame Emerging Artist program. What did those milestones mean to you at this stage in your career?
They actually meant the world to me. During 2023, I went through a bit of a creative awakening, and it took a bit of a toll on me. Suddenly, I had a realization that I wasn’t happy with my creative direction. So, I reworked most of songs, rewrote melodies, curated my social media better and started it all up again in a way. Several months of working on myself then led to the news of winning the 3rd Place Prize for Canadas Walk Of Fame Emerging Musician Program and then later the Compelling Calgarian of 2025 title. I was and am still incredibly grateful for being a recipient of both.
“What’s on your bucket list as an artist — both short term and long term — and can you name one Canadian artist and one UK artist you’d love to collaborate with?”
On my bucket list would be to perform in my hometown Edgware, London, England, perform at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary and to do a crazy world tour at least once. My dream Canadian collaboration would be to work with the Drake of course. My dream English collab would be to work with Avelino.
