KINGSTON, Jamaica – For 21-year-old aspiring artiste, TevinKingg, a career in music was never an option. In fact, the Maxfield/Central Village native said he always envisioned himself as a professional football player; perhaps one day donning the national colours, representing Jamaica on an international level.

Life however, had other plans.

The up-and-coming entertainer, born Milford Platt, told Observer Online that while football had his heart, music is his true calling.

“To be honest, I always wanted to be a footballer. Music was not an option for me. But as time went by the love for football faded and music took over that space. I don’t know how to explain it really, it’s a love that just continued growing. I couldn’t deny it and so I just embraced it,” he shared.

No longer trying to quell his burgeoning love for music, the aspiring entertainer said he set out on a course to make his dreams a reality.

“I’m a very ambitious person that believes highly in myself. I am very hardworking with a high self esteem,” he told Observer Online. “Once I tell myself that this is the goal, I do whatever it takes to make it happen. Music came naturally. When I decided I would take it seriously, the joy it gave me when the people around me would sing my songs, is indescribable.”

TevinKingg stated that he released his first official single some three months ago and hopes the track can be the catalyst to bigger things as he continues his musical journey. The track, Fighter, tells the tale of growing up in the tough inner- city communities he’s had to call home and how life lessons there have bred in him a hunger to elevate himself.

The up-and-coming entertainer, born Milford Platt, said while football had his heart, music is his true calling. (Photo: Contributed)

“My journey has been very interesting so far. I’ve learnt so much since I’ve entered the scene. Not everything goes to plan but from the work is happening, nobody can stop it,” he said. “Mi grow up in the garrisons. I know it takes persistence to make it in life. Nothing good ever comes easy. We have dreams of moving to higher grounds and so we keep working towards that everyday and there’s a saying that I live by that says, ‘wuk and believe’…to me, that’s a winning recipe.”

“I see myself going to the top! I know the potential I have and right now a only God can stop this from happening,” he continued. “I have the confidence and the right people around me so with time I”ll make it.”

With Alkaline, NBA Young Boy and Quando Rondo listed among his musical inspirations, TevinKingg says his style oozes versatility and believes that is enough to set him apart in an oversaturated music industry.

“At this stage, I’m trying to get the younger audience to get engaged with my sound. I would classify myself as a trap dancehall artiste however, I’m a really versatile artiste that can dominate other sounds,” he said. “I know breaking through in the industry will be tough but it’s not impossible and so far, reaction to my songs has been good. I have hit the ground running all thanks to High9 Records and Umble Family Entertainment.”