WHILE working as a journalist in the newsrooms at Irie FM and the North Coast Times Andre Hinds-Allen would write songs in his spare time. At some point he had to make a choice between covering or making the news.

He chose to do the latter as Bas360, a singjay based in Los Angeles (LA). His latest song is A Matter of Time, which he wrote and produced for his Steamatic Records.

Bas360 told the Jamaica Observer that A Matter of Time is for the depressed who feel there is no way out.

“There are a lot of lost individuals out there who think there is no road to redemption for them, but this song aims to inspire those who need guidance on their way to spiritual recovery,” he said.

The dreadlocked singer has lived in Southern California for seven years. During that time he has recorded a number of songs he describes as “happy music that will make you dance but also think deeply”.

Those include Got the Medical and Fatherless.

Born in St Ann, Bas360 entered journalism after graduating from York Castle High School in that parish. He remembers covering mainly current affairs and court dates, but while the job of a newshound was “thrilling and edifying”, the aspiring artiste wanted to emulate his heroes who include Garnet Silk and Tarrus Riley.

After covering the West Kingston incursion in May 2010, Bas360 called time on his journalism career and sought a new life as a singer.

In LA he has fit into a thriving reggae scene led by American bands like Rebelution and Stick Figure. LA is also home to veteran roots-reggae artistes like Ras Michael of the Sons of Negus and members of the Soul Syndicate Band.

Bas360’s objective is to write and record songs that have a consistent message.

“My inspiration comes from my day-to-day struggles and wins. I aim to deliver a positive message to my fans that can help them cope with the many obstacles life throws their way. I have been through a lot and with the strength of Jah I have always overcome, and this is my main inspiration in every song I do,” he said.