Singjay Serio believes his “unique” style will help to take him to higher notes as he charts his course in a fledgling career.

“The vibe that I bring to dancehall distinguishes me from others… it’s unique because some artistes come on the scene and they are copying other artistes, but not me as my style is singing in the chorus and hardcore in the verses,” said the Spanish Town native.

The 23-year-old barber, born Anthony Allen, notes that while he focuses on developing his own style, he draws inspiration from some of the big hitters in the Dancehall genre.

“I get my inspiration from various artistes like Buju Banton, Chronixx, Vybz Kartel, Aidonia, Bounty Killa, Beenie Man and Shabba Ranks,” Serio shared.

The former Eltham High student admits that the reality of his social situation, plus personal experiences provide a trigger for his creativity.

“We are around good things and bad things and we learn how to fuse them together to create music,” Serio told Splash.

His new single, She Gone, which has been enjoying some rotation on local radio, tells the story of a man left heartbroken by a fleeing lover.

“A part of it (the single) was made up and a part of it was realistic as you know you have a girl and you like her and the relationship didn’t work out, and then comes a bad riddim and you put pen to paper and then you create what you see and hear,” explained Serio.

The rhythm, he claims, is called Upsetter and was created by “DJ Ash Oil and has been sampled by Mavado and Alkaline”.

Serio, which is Spanish for serious, has words of encouragement for up-and-coming contemporaries.

“Don’t give up, just find a purpose, and once you have that, it will all make sense to keep going,” he ended.

— Sean Williams