CJ Fly

CJ Fly, born Chaine St. Aubin Downer Jr. on July 6, 1993, in Brooklyn, New York, is a rapper, songwriter, and producer known for his thought-provoking lyrics and jazz-infused boom-bap style. A founding member of the influential hip-hop collective Pro Era, CJ has played a key role in the revival of East Coast lyricism during the 2010s.

Growing up in Bedford–Stuyvesant, one of Brooklyn’s most historically rich neighborhoods, CJ began writing poetry as a child and was rapping by his early teens. His passion for music truly took flight during his time at Edward R. Murrow High School, where he met future collaborators Joey Bada$$, Capital STEEZ, and Powers Pleasant. Together, they formed Pro Era in 2011—a group celebrated for its dedication to lyricism and old-school sensibilities.

CJ first caught attention through standout features on Pro Era projects and Joey Bada$$’s breakout mixtape 1999. In 2013, he released his debut solo mixtape, Thee Way Eye See It, which showcased his introspective approach and lyrical finesse. His debut studio album Flytrap arrived in 2016, followed by Rudebwoy in 2020, both earning praise for their honesty and vintage-meets-modern sound.

Beyond his solo efforts, CJ Fly has collaborated with respected names like Ab-Soul, Phife Dawg, and Buckshot. His work with Pro Era and the broader Beast Coast movement has helped bring soulful, conscious rap back into the spotlight.