There was a time when you had to be in Jamaica to make it as a reggae or dancehall artist. However, with the popularity and success of artists such as Shaggy, Red Fox and Rayvon (who is Barbadian), we saw a little light in a very dark tunnel.
In recent times, artists such as Kranium, Hood Celebrity and Dovey Magnum, based in the United States, have achieved success living outside Jamaica. We see Stylo G and Stefflon Don breaking big in the UK with their dancehall/grime fusion sound.
Also hailing from the UK is dancehall deejay Big Zeeks, one of the hottest acts from North West London. Born to Jamaican parents in Harlesden, Big Zeeks grew up exposed to the sound of Kingston, including Jamaican stars such as Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Peter Tosh and Garnet Silk, to name a few.
With a subconscious influence from reggae, revival and dancehall, Big Zeeks began his journey DJing on local pirate stations and clubs from the age of thirteen. In 2005 he joined Strike Force Sound as part of the Triple S Audio Sound System. He released his first single while still a teen in 2009. Drawing influences from Jamaican legends such as Super Cat and UK-based Gappy Ranks, Big Zeeks does not want to label as a dancehall artist, a common trait among NEW GEN artists who shun genre labels.
According to the rising star, “my style isn’t just dancehall, I have a one-away, energetic and unique sound.”
The Fresh Prince of Harlesden continues his steady progress as an artist in the reggae dancehall scene, performing at many shows around the UK and the world spreading his positive energy and excellent performance skills. Check out some of his hot songs so far; they include ‘Yo’, ‘It’s a Lot of Money’, and ‘Happy’ featuring Stylo G + D Double E.
His recent collaboration with Shaqy Dread, the Bash Drill remix, also features x OFB Munie x Lisa Maffia x J-Kaz x D Live.
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