For years, independent label Overproof Records has quietly earned a reputation for identifying promising talent from western Jamaica and helping artists transform local buzz into national recognition.

Now, the label’s founder and Chief Executive Officer, Asa “Ace” Smith, believes he has discovered another artist capable of making that leap.

His latest protégé is Zen, a singer-songwriter from St James whose debut single, Over You, was released on June 12 across all major streaming platforms.

The emotionally charged track explores heartbreak, healing and resilience, following the story of someone struggling to move beyond the emotional scars of a toxic relationship while searching for genuine love and connection.

“Zen is going to blow up with his great writing and incredible vocals,” Smith said confidently. “The song is not explicit; it’s heartfelt, powerful and tells a story that a lot of people can relate to.”

Born in Montego Bay and raised in the rural community of Rosemount in Cambridge, St James, Zen’s musical foundation was built in the church. He first discovered his passion for singing as a member of his church choir before expanding his talents through school performances while attending Cambridge High School.

His vocal abilities quickly attracted attention. During his school years, he became an active member of the choir and later earned recognition as a finalist in the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s Festival of the Arts, one of the country’s most respected showcases for emerging talent.

Yet his journey into music did not follow a conventional path.

Rather than immediately pursuing a career as a recording artiste, Zen initially focused on music production, creating beats and instrumentals under the name “Alpha”. The experience provided him with a deeper understanding of songwriting, arrangement and studio craftsmanship, skills that would later become invaluable when he stepped into the spotlight as a performer.

Eventually, he made the transition from producer to artiste, adopting the stage name Zen and developing a sound rooted in authentic storytelling and personal experience.

Today, his music reflects a unique blend of gospel influences, choir training and contemporary Jamaican sounds. The result is a style that balances spirituality, emotion and modern appeal while remaining grounded in meaningful songwriting.

That combination is precisely what Smith believes sets the young artist apart in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

“At Overproof Records, we have to seize every opportunity to invest in and elevate our music to the world,” Smith said.

The philosophy has become a cornerstone of the label’s growth strategy. Over the years, Overproof Records has built its reputation by focusing on artist development rather than chasing trends, helping cultivate talent with long-term potential.

With the release of Over You and a dedicated team behind him, Zen now finds himself standing at the beginning of a journey that countless aspiring artists dream about but few successfully navigate.

For Smith and the Overproof Records team, the hope is that Zen’s combination of strong songwriting, polished vocals and uplifting messaging will connect with audiences both at home and abroad — establishing him as the label’s next breakout success.