Dancehall artiste Valiant marked his 26th birthday with a vibrant performance at Dubwise Café on Lady Musgrave Road in St Andrew last Thursday. The show was part of the monthly Sound Check series which features live performances of popular acts in an intimate setting.

Originally from Mannings Hill in St Andrew, Valiant started his music career in 2012 and honed his craft for a decade before his meteoric rise to stardom in 2022 with hits such as Dunce Cheque and Sciance.

The Oberlin High School graduate has remained grounded in his roots and faith, and during an interview with the Jamaica Observer at the event attributed his success to his unwavering belief in God.

“If not for God, I wouldn’t be here today,” Valiant expressed, his voice stern with conviction.
He also expressed pride in his son and spoke of the major milestones he’s achieved, including his recent win at the MOBO Awards for Best Caribbean Music Act and a Certificate of Recognition from New York City’s Public Advocate for his “dedicated service to community and cause.”

Valiant’s passion for his craft was also clear as he spoke about his desire to reach new heights.

“There’s a lot of milestones in my career that I really appreciate. Mi nuh achieve nuff as yet but we’re going towards that,” he said.

“This is what I’ve always wanted. I’m self-driven so mi always want things. For example, (even though) mi already get the MOBO, it still nuh feel like mi have wah mi have as yet so mi always want more. Mi always a try fi keep myself busy, make music, always trying to do something, so a just consistency,” the Mad Out singer added as he hinted at new projects and collaborations in the pipeline.

– Sandena James