Dancehall artiste Jah Teff believes that more creativity and authenticity are needed if dancehall is to reclaim its rightful place on the global music scene.

St James native who now resides in New York made the assertion in an interview with Observer Online earlier this week.

“I think that what we can do as an industry to bring dancehall music back on the forefront of the international music scene is to try and be more creative with the rhythms. The songs that we are making, we need to try and keep it authentic,” said Jah Teff.

It was 29 years ago that Jah Teff decided to start his own label Up Deh Music Production, a move he says gave him more creative control of his music. He has also produced songs for a number of artistes under the label.

“Some of the major acts that I have produced include Ed Robinson, a song called Happy which I am featured on. I also produced a song featuring Twiggi called Careful, Ride it by Future Fambo and Galis by Mr Lexx,” said Jah Teff.

Jah Teff released his latest single Snatch Her on May 11. The official video for the song is to be completed this week, with a release date earmarked for Fathers’ Day, June 15.

“Snatch Her inspiration came from me just holding a vibe with friends in the studio while writing lyrics.

“The song a gwaan good already and di music video a forward suh yuh know a mad ting when dat drop. The fans love the original sound of the song so the support from both the industry and the fans has been very good thus far,” Jah Teff confided.

He added, “As an artiste, it is also important to be able to navigate the business side of things as well as the creative side. I have always taken pride in being able to balance both aspects. I write my own music, I produce, and I have created a team around me to do everything else,” said the artiste whose real name is Gary Johnson.

Jah Teff recently wrapped up promotional dates in California, New York City, Detroit, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Nebraska and Minnesota.