NEWS
EVENTS
desmond the songwriter
Reggae | Monday 16th April 2012 | Osh
With influences from gospel, jazz and R&B, desmond is a reggae/ soul singer/ songwriter. His first EP, Losers Never Win, has done well with radio airplay and reaching number one on Reverbnation's reggae chart for New Orleans. And with bigger plans for this year, he filled us in on his journey so far...
At what age did you start writing? What influenced you?
I started writing shortly after leaving high school. I was the music director for my church and I wrote a gospel song for music day.
With a gospel, jazz and R&B background flowing through your sound, what are your musical influences?
I grew up singing gospel in church and there was a decent jazz scene in Jamaica and I used to go to all the free jazz shows. I also listened to a lot of R&B on Jamaican radio.
How has your gospel background prepared you for now? How has it shaped your current style?
I am comfortable on stage and only sing about things I know about, experience and believe in.
So are there any particular scriptures that keep you going strong with your music?
My favourite text in the bible is Romans 8:28 which says all things work together for good to them that love God.
Being number one on Reverbnation is a great feat. What has it been like getting to this point?
It has been a struggle as it is very competitive but I have been getting a lot of positive feedback because of the quality and uniqueness of my music.
You recently released an EP called Losers Never Win, are there any more releases in the pipeline? When can we expect them?
I am planning to release an album on Tuesday June 5, 2012. It will have more uplifting songs and a few love songs.
And are there any tours planned for Europe? When/ where will they be?
I am in discussions with promoters in the UK, France, Spain, Netherlands and Germany about performing on a few festivals in the summer.
Which artists have you worked with and how have they personally influenced you?
I have worked with Desi Jones who has been the drummer for Jimmy Cliff, Dennis Rushton who has been featured on BET’s jazz channel, Pam Hall and Nicholas Laraque, saxophonist for the Marley’s.
What is the main message you are trying to promote through your music?
I try to inspire people to pursue their dreams and realise their potential.
And what themes can be found running through your music?
Themes of adversity and love.
A pivotal moment in your career?
One day last summer I decided to stop making excuses and waiting until everything was perfect and I just focused on my song writing... and then I released my EP.
What is next for you on your musical journey?
I have been working on completing the album and performing every chance I get.
Where can your music be found?
It is available on iTunes, Amazon and from my website http://www.desmondthesongwriter.com
