His track Yeah Yeah was on the lips of partygoers this past summer and months later remains a club banger. The track showcased deejay Aidonia as one who has come through the ranks over the years to take his place as a front-runner in the dancehall arena.

He described 2017 as being an incredible year for his career, not withstanding its challenges, but for him that is part of the growth process.

“ I was in Miami at the time for Best Of The Best in my hotel room just thinking I need to put out something for the summer, then the whole vibe of how people prepare for the party season came to me and the rest is history. I don’t think I can point to a single accomplishment, but I would say the success of Yeah Yeah internationally and getting nominated for a MOBO Award are among the biggest highlights,” he told Splash.

On the Genna Bounce rhythm, Yeah Yeah was produced by 4th Genna Music and Emundio Records.

Aidonia is prepared to ride on the success on this track and has collaborated with award-winning music producer Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor for an upcoming project. Produced on Di Genius Records imprint, the single is an infectious anthem geared towards the females and slated for release in the days ahead.

“Right now me just a put in the work, have several new things to drop, so fans can definitely look out for couple bangers like Breeze with me and Govana, plus Set Fi Di Backshot produced by Stephen and something for the streets. Stephen and I have always had good musical chemistry over the years, so collaborating on this new project is just a natural vibe. Aside from that, just focusing on the album.”

Aidonia, whose given name is Sheldon Lawrence, is confident that the success he has garnered over the years comes from his “realness” and the authentic dancehall vibe that he brings to a recording or performance. He stridently rubbishes the argument that dancehall culture is damaging Jamaica’s music brand.

“One of Jamaica’s main exports is music — reggae and dancehall to be more exact. when all the major shows [like] Sumfest, Rebel Salute, Sting and all the others are held, is the music that attracts all those thousands of people to the island. So when you look at it logically, what they are saying about damaging the brand don’t make any sense.”

However, he will admit there is work to be done. And like his fellow artistes Chronixx and Tony Rebel, Aidonia is adamant that greater support is required from all to move the industry forward.

“We need more unity in the industry among the artistes and various industry players, along with more support from Corporate Jamaica and the Government, because the music bring so much to this country economical. if everybody support the culture we would be able to make an even greater impact internationally,” he stated.