Brampton native nominated for Juno Award

Jeff “Prezident” Offe, who started out as just another kid playing around with Fruity Loops on his computer for fun, the 2014 Juno nomination for his production on Rich Kidd’s album ‘In My Opinion.’

For someone who set the goal for himself nearly 2 years ago to the exact date, one might dare say that it’s actually quite impressive.

He finished second at the 2013 NXNE (North by North East) music festival iStandard Producer showcase in Toronto.

Offe has been producing music since he started attending North Park Secondary School, in Brampton.

“Humble and genuine are a few words to describe ‘Prez.’ He’s probably the nicest guy I’ve ever met,” says Jei Parks, marketing student and high school friend of Offe.

Offe says his three-year-old daughter is his motivation and inspiration to making music.

The road to his Juno nomination was tough and de-motivating at times.

“I was at different crossroads in my lifetime and I wanted to quit but anytime I wanted to quit there were signs and my daughter which helped me continue on my road to success,” says Offe.

Offe describes his beats as very dark and emotional. He likes to incorporate sounds from the ’80s, to give it an eclectic touch.

Greg ‘Mason’ Payne, a pioneer in the hip-hop industry, introduced Offe to Rich Kidd about three years ago.

Rich Kidd used beats that Offe had made for himself.

“I went over to his apartment, he chose a couple of beats from my archives, that I thought would not see the light of day,” says Offe.

Toronto producers have made their mark in the music industry, an industry that is lucrative and competitive.

Boi-1-da and Noah ’40’ Shebib, who both have produced for Beyonce, Drake, Nicki Manaj, have  inspired Offe and his music career.

“These guys have broken down the doors for Canadian producers,” says Offe.

He says Canadian producers and music artists need to network and understand who they are as an artist in order to be successful.

The 2014 Juno Awards air on CTV March 30 at 9 p.m.