Wedda wants more shine for rural artistes

Jamaica, arguably, has some of the most naturally talented people in all art forms, but some of these individuals are left unseen for a myriad of reasons.

Nevertheless, for Hanover-born, up-and-coming deejay Wedda, it is time to change the tide as he believes that rural artistes should get more shine.

Speaking with THE STAR, the 21-year-old said it is the lack of a platform that leaves several talented artistes undiscovered, while those in more urban areas have a better shot at fame.

"Nobody wants to recognise artistes. Radio stations do not want to recognise us because of where we are from. We have to be using other ways to promote [our music]. We need more radio play reaching out to us in the rural area," he said.

Born Akeem Daniel Davis, the youngster hails from Cacoon district. He had always been a lover of music, but never really pursued it as a full-time career until he received an extra push from his sister. It was not until last December that the songwriter and performer linked up with popular Hanover producer Fari Don Music to release his first single, One Chance. Though still very fresh in the industry, Wedda has already seen a few roadblocks, most of which have to do with the little acceptance or promotion of music where he is based.

"[The greatest challenge so far is] having people a fight you and saying, 'stop do this, stop do that', because of where I live at Hanover. No one really recognises music here. Nuff people push mi to give up, but otherwise, no real hard challenge. Mi just stay by myself and just write," he shared.

Wedda, whose name is inspired by a childhood story, where he used to walk around in a raincoat on sunny days, said that growing up, his childhood was pretty calm. He never lived in a violent community, nor was he wrapped up with 'bad company'. Still, according to him, this never made him less aware of the plight of those around him and across the island. The stories of the people are what, he says, inspires his lyrics.

"A whole heap a struggle in life; that is the main thing that inspire to me do music. Not only in my life, but whole heap of people a struggle, too. I make music that reflects today's society, things that happen in people's everyday life. Remember, is not one person in the world, so I can't make one type of song to drag one audience. It affi drag everybody," he said.

With his sights set on eventually becoming a household name, he is hoping that his passion will make him stand out.

"Most artiste do music for the fame and hype, and not because they necessarily love it. I genuinely love music. Mi do music because of the message it a send," he said.