My Kingston – Devin Di Dakta
What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up this morning?
How good God is to wake me up, and then I thought about what I am going to have for breakfast.
What is your earliest memory of Kingston?
Making my first trip to the National Stadium, when I was in sixth grade.
What were your dreams/aspirations as an adolescent? Were you able to accomplish those dreams?
As an adolescent my dream was always to become one of dancehall’s biggest superstars and yes, I am still in the process of making my dream a reality.
Takes us back to the moment you became aware of your YVA nomination. How did you feel?
When I became aware of the YVA nomination, I got so excited. I had just left a show in Clarendon and was heading to Hanover when I got the call from my manager, Shelly-Ann Curran. I started banging on the steering wheel and shouting with excitement. Everyone thought I was getting off until I told them that I was nominated for not one, but two Youth View Awards. They then joined in on the madness until we pulled over at a jerk centre and started celebrating.
What were your thoughts as you prepped for your performance?
Before I went on stage, I was just trying to keep calm and remain focused on my performance and not get carried away by the screaming fans.
Other than your smash hit, Rev Out Di RR with Renee ‘RR’ Reid, what can we find playing on your iPod?
All my recordings and music from other artistes, including Vybz Kartel, and several reggae songs. However, as of late, I find myself listening to my own music more than others, so I’ve become my favourite artiste.
Who or what inspires your music?
Vybz Kartel inspires me musically because to be the best you have to beat the best. On the other hand, music is real-life happenings in the form of art, so, in a sense, life inspires me.
What has been your favourite overseas gig, if any?
I haven’t been overseas. Not yet. But I have performed all over Jamaica, and my best experiences are with schools. I am sincerely loved by young people.
What do you think will be your ‘Mama, I’ve made it’ moment?
I experience that moment every time I walk into a venue to perform, a supermarket, stores or just from meeting fans in public. The love I get from fans without performing is tremendous.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years I see myself living that dream of being one of dancehall’s biggest superstars.
What has been your proudest accomplishment to date?
I am so proud of all my accomplishments, I can’t name just one. To date, some of my proudest accomplishments have been winning the Tastee Talent Trail competition in 2012, winning Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall in 2015, and being featured on Sly and Robbie and Spicy Chocolate’s The Reggae Power 2 album.
What, if anything, have you learnt from the music industry?
What I have learnt from the music industry — always place yourself first, second and third, reserving fourth and fifth for yourself as well. Essentially, always put yourself first.
Share one piece of financial advice for artistes on the rise.
SPEND: Save Part of Every New Dollar.
List three things (not including your cellphone, money and keys) that you never leave home without.
A rag or handkerchief; my flash drive with ‘riddims’; and my watch.
What cologne are you splashing?
I am deeply in love with colognes, that’s the gift I usually request. I now own over 30 colognes. My favourites are 1 Million by Paco Rabanne, Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme, Dior La Collection Privée Cologne Royale, Jimmy Choo Man, Bvlgari Pour Homme Soir Cologne, and Creed.
How does the fashion industry impact your artistry and sense of style?
Fashion has a great impact on my artistry and sense of style. As a recording artiste, you have to have an outstanding image, especially because I’m a role model for young people. I have to be well-attired at all times. I have always been a lover of fashion too; I may consider modelling in the future.
Complete the phrase, ‘I am most at peace when…’
I am chilling with my family.
Use three words to describe your journey.
My journey has been bittersweet and tedious but with a dedicated mindset. I am blessed, and with the help and support of my family, friends, manager and the rest of my team, it has been a manageable journey.
What is your philosophy?
My philosophy is the five ‘P’s: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performances.