IT is never easy for children of famous persons to follow in their parents’ footsteps. But Dane Lee, son of music producer Bunny ‘Striker’ Lee, is determined to make it as a singer.

Lee, 30, is working with producer John ‘Jon FX’ Crawford on his debut album, after working with other acts.

“I have written songs for Ky-Mani Marley (I Will Survive) and I’ve also written for Atlanta hip- hop artiste Tabius Tate,” said Lee.

Born in Miami, Florida, he grew up in Greenwich Town, his father’s hometown. That Kingston fishing community was the inspiration for Lee senior’s success during the 1970s.

Lee said given his father’s reputation, a career in music was inevitable.

“I grew up around it all my life. My father is a producer and I used to be exposed to the entire industry at a young age. I used to watch artistes and how they articulated themselves while in sessions and things of that nature,” he recalled. “I also tried to mimic their sounds as well. I remember when Beenie Man used to live with my father and I used to just be in awe to see him record a whole album in less than an hour. John Holt was our next door neighbour and he used to give me vocal training, so too did Dennis Brown.”

Some of Lee’s songs, including World of Corruption, are produced by his father. He has also recorded for Florida-based SoBe Entertainment and Tony Kelly.

Bunny Lee is a reggae legend. Holt was among the countless artistes he worked with on songs like Stick by Me, Better Must Come (Delroy Wilson), Gorgon (Cornel Campbell) and Move Outa Babylon by Johnny Clarke.

Being around his father, Lee stressed, has prepared him for the challenges of the music industry.

“He has given me all the tools I need to be successful in this industry including, having an open mind towards things and staying true to the music in regards to the emotions I convey when recording. He also told me to accept constructive criticisms because there is always room for improvement, and, most importantly, don’t ever lose yourself.”

-Kevin Jackson