REGGAE singer/producer Iley Dread has changed his moniker to Chardavid. The artiste said the name change became necessary due to some publishing challenges.

“The company which used to handle my publishing was sold a few years ago. However, the new owners say they did not buy the publishing aspect of the business. The former company no longer exists,” he explained.

“We were having publishing issues even before the company closed so now I’m just trying to collect what is due to me.”

Chardavid, whose real name is Collin Levy, said the name change comes at an exciting time in his career. He said his new album, Unleashed, is slated to the released in May.

And, according to Chardavid, the title is significant.

“As a songwriter, for years I dedicated my time to writing for other artistes which keep me ‘shelved’. Therefore, I unleashed, showing my creativity and put my all into this project,” he said.

The singer/producer said his new album boasts collaborations with Marcia Griffiths, Lady Saw, Turbulance and Lutan Fyah.

As Iley Dread, Chardavid had a major presence in the dancehall during the late 1990s and early 2000s through his Kings Of Kings label which functioned largely out of Canada.

The Kings Of Kings camp scored several hit songs with the likes of Norris Man, Sizzla, Capelton and Bushman. Iley Dread released his debut album, Friends For Life, in 2001.

His second album was Unite The People.

He is best known for the songs Trying Man, One Chance, and If I Had The World.