Emerging dancehall singjay Artikal said he’s on a mission to inject his artistic talent into what he considers a stagnant music industry.

“Well, if you notice, I don’t have a background or reputation of being a gangsta and I’m not covered in tattoos, nor do I try to stir controversy to make it into the mainstream. Artikal is simply focused on delivering music with a clean and unique sound,” the 21-year-old told Splash.

His latest single is Pilot, which, according to him, looks at Jamaican nightlife.

“It is really about a lifestyle which includes the nightlife and fashion scene within the dancehall culture right now. It captures a topic that everyone who enjoys the dancehall culture can relate to. It does so without being explicit,” he said.

Produced by KaleX Music Productions, Pilot has been getting its fair share of radio play for a month now.

A video is also in the works.

Artikal (given name Shaquille Bennett) is a former student of St George’s College and Calabar High School. He explained how he got into music.

“I was introduced to music by being around the studio from a young age and being exposed to the industry as my dad has been in the music business for almost two decades now. I’ve always had a love for good music and an interest in making my own,” he said.

“My past and present experiences and also what I intend to achieve in life, and with my career in music, all play a part of my inspiration. The vibe around my community, friends and family and their triumphs and tribulations are also key cogs, and as such is oftentimes reflected in my writing,” he continued.

His other tracks include Let It Go, Smile, Only You ft D’Angel, Happy Feeling, and Real Friends.

— Marc A. Risden