Magnum Di Studio gives up-and-coming talent a chance

Talent was on show at the Magnum Reggae Sumfest: A Taste of Reggae Sumfest last Saturday beyond the main stage.

For the past two years, 1Mani Musiq has been trying to break into the music industry. Born Tyquan Parchment, the 20-year-old dancehall artiste was in the venue setting up displays for a festival vendor, but after hearing several announcements, Parchment took the opportunity set up for him. Title sponsor Magnum unveiled its interactive experience at Plantation Cove, St Ann, including, for the first time, a recording studio.

“We were proud to give aspiring artistes and music lovers the opportunity to step behind the microphone and experience what it feels like to record a track in a professional setting,” said Brandon Wallace, Magnum brand manager. “Magnum’s continued commitment is to champion dancehall by creating opportunities for authentic engagement.”

Parchment was the first person in the studio and recorded Air Drop in the Magnum Di Studio. This track adds to his growing dancehall catalogue including Fallen Trip, Puerto Rico and Rhude Santa.

“It’s a learning process and the experience was good,” said Parchment, a Ewarton High School alum. Next up was Marcelle Chérie, who was also drawn into Magnum Endz by the lively atmosphere and announcements.

Born Marcelle Smith, the singer has spent the past three years building her music career after putting her advertising and public relations career on hold to pursue her passion full-time.

“I am working on my breakthrough, keeping my head down and working hard hoping that more people will hear my sound,” Smith said before her session started. “This (Di Studio) was so cool and different. It gives artistes the opportunity to socialise. I’ve actually met some people since being here. It’s great networking.” Her style of fusion dancehall, Afrobeats, and R&B led to a summer 2023 debut with Inna Mi Vibes. Her EP, Likkle Bass was released in May 2025. Her influences include breakout artistes Tyla, Davido, Ayra Starr, Tems, WizKid and Rema.

Powering Magnum Di Studio were the experienced and talented audio recording engineers Rayon ‘Slyda Di Wizard’ Curate and Frederick ‘Blackspyda’ Wright of Romeich Entertainment. A producer for more than a decade, Curate has built an impressive résumé in dancehall. In 2019, he produced the popular ‘Braff’ rhythm, featuring artistes such as Squash, Teejay, Shenseea, Ding Dong and Vershon.

“My tracks are mostly melodies and creative beat patterns make my sound special,” Curate said. “I have worked with Magnum already for the Kings and Queens of Dancehall, to create riddim for the contestants to use during the competition.”

Having first learnt music by ear while playing in a church in Guys Hill, St Catherine, Curate said he welcomed the opportunity to help nurture emerging talent through Magnum Di Studio.

“Having the studio here is a good venture. It allows young talent to showcase their talent and get exposure. After the song is recorded, the audience has a chance to hear their talent and they can gain some fans,” he explained.