Dancehall artiste Shaneil Muir has joined forces with fellow entertainer Skeng to participate in ongoing relief efforts.

The duo walked the streets of St James on Wednesday to not only get a first-hand account of the devastation left behind by Hurricane Melissa but to hand out essential goods to those in need.

Alongside Skeng, the artiste known for hits like Yamabella brought in a truckload of supplies. To immediately address the urgent need for hydration, Muir personally ordered and contributed 150 cases of bottled water, supplementing the goods being distributed.

The pair, managed by Showtime Services Management, said they are committed to the island’s rebuilding efforts.

According to a release from the entertainers’ team, Muir, visibly moved by the devastation, spent time speaking directly with residents in hard-hit areas. She expressed being brought to tears by what she described as “damaged yet strong people”.

Their team shared that the collaboration underscores the shared humanity that guides both artistes.

“Before being public figures, we are humans, and more importantly we are Jamaicans,” Muir said.

For Skeng, this is just the beginning of an effort to assist. He shared that the initiative has already garnered attention and support from peers and industry friends, including internationally acclaimed rapper Nicki Minaj.

He said his focus will be on some of the most remote communities, as he dreads they may be forgotten in the grand scheme of things.

“Me nuh want we forget the ones dem weh nobody can see, so dem nuh member dem,” he said.

Cara Burke, manager for both artistes, confirmed their dedication goes beyond charitable action.

“Shaneil and Skeng are working to make a significant difference in rebuilding what and where they can,” Burke said.

She also revealed that the intensity of the hurricane has inspired Shaneil Muir’s next musical project. The singer, who was in Montego Bay during the Category 5 hurricane that ravaged the island, has channelled the emotional experience into new music.

Shaneil Muir is soon set to release a new single, produced by Damage Music, which was written immediately after her first-hand experience with Hurricane Melissa.

— Shereita Grizzle

Shaneil Muir.

Skeng.