In the early to mid-2000s the name Kafinal resonated with music lovers and fans of the theatre.

As a part of the duo Kafinal and Sambo, they scored a hit with the comedic-dancehall song and parody
Cooking Dat Pwile.

Kafinal, who appeared in roots theatre productions, including Two Fowl a Mi Yard and Brother Desmond, later relocated to Canada where he continued his musical career.

A few years ago he earned his biggest achievement in music, when his collaboration Nah Complain featuring veteran deejay U-Roy, won the JUNO Award for Reggae Recording of the Year.

Kafinal has since rebranded as Jef Wyllz and is a born-again Christian.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer, Jef Wyllz spoke about the new chapter in his life and how he is using his talent to spread the message of the Lord in music.

“To be honest, I was baptised when I was younger, even though I strayed from the faith the calling has always been there to return to the faith. The music I do now is more than just entertaining, I am ministering the gospel of Jesus Christ, an ambassador of the Kingdom,” he said.

“The Christian life is one that comes with many challenges and it is the life that connects you to the creator, the sovereign God. I can assure you it is the most fulfilling life, the most purposeful and secure life,” he continued.

Originally from Kingston, Jef Wyllz relocated to Canada residing in Toronto for the past 17 years.

“From a tender age I had been performing at school, church, and community events, then in 1997 I did my first recording on Hard Bark record label,” he said.

Jef Wyllz said he has no regrets turning his life around.

“[A]ctually I wish I was walking this walk way sooner, and I also pray all who hear the calling will answer and let God reign supreme in their lives,” he said. “I am still on the potter’s wheel; I am still a work in progress. I love the Lord and it’s my desire to make it into his Kingdom.”

His current single is a cover of I Speak Jesus. The song, originally recorded in 2019 by the collective Hear Be Lions, became a worldwide Christian anthem in 2021 thanks to an updated version by American contemporary Christian music worship leader, singer and songwriter Charity Gayle featuring Steven Musso.

The version by Jef Wyllz was released in August via Sing N Act Entertainment, and it was produced by Owen Rennals, who is also the bass player on the song. Other musicians who contributed to the song include Cleveland “Clevie” Browne (drums), Nicholas Groskopf (guitar), and Odane Stephens (keyboard).

“I Speak Jesus is a song about hope and peace stating that Jesus is our peace. It encourages me and I hope it will be just as uplifting and encouraging to others and hopefully lead them to Jesus Christ. The message is that there is power in the name of Jesus; ultimately, he is the answer to all our issues, he is our healer, he is our strength, and ultimately our saviour,” said Jef Wyllz.