Hot Topic thinks too much obeah in music

Dancehall singjay Hot Topic is a firm believer in the power of prayer, and that's the main reason he was perturbed by all the references to dark powers, the occult and obeah which have crept into dancehall music.

"Right now, I am saying prayers over 'science'; there is too much obeah talk in today's music. So I was inspired to do this new song, Altar, to show people that prayer is everything. God is the only power and I know that based on the economic struggle that I grew up facing, and a realisation of where I am at now," said Hot Topic, whose given name is Calvin Wisdom.

Altar is on the 'Prayers' rhythm project, a version of the iconic 'Far East' rhythm, which features other artistes such as Ziddy.

Born in Bloomwell district in Clarendon, Hot Topic grew up in Waterhouse, Kingston 11. He attended the Thompson Town High School where he showed an early flair for music. He first got involved in music when he linked up with Beenie Man, who was impressed by his talent. Hot Topic recorded his first song, Calling Out for Love featuring Sizzla, which was released in 2017.

Hot Topic walked to studios all over Kingston and even Spanish Town to record songs. He entered the Digicel Rising Stars competition in 2008 and the Festival Song contest twice, under the monikers Rasta KeeKee and King Solomon, respectively. Both times he made it to the top 10. In 2019, he linked up with producer Power Forbes and inked a recording deal. He started to fine-tune a new sound, changing his name to Hot Topic.

"My future plans for music is to spread positive message across the world and help other new artistes to get recognition and become established in the industry," he said.

He is presently working on a six-song EP.