A#keem’s Message to the World Through Reggae
Interview by Mike Ponin
“Reasoning, and positive thinking […] I believe with those two tools, any person can overcome any obstacle or challenge”
After his journey to further his education in Trinidad & Tobago, A#keem came to the realization that the major cause of violence in society is a result of the negative influences of music that is allowed to air and circulate. So he decided to use his bit of talent, and reasoning, to counteract that catastrophic reality by creating positive and uplifting music that would hopefully affect permanent positive change.
I gravitated to reggae because I believe for every job there is an ideal tool, to carry water you need a bucket, to carry a load of sand you need a dumper truck, therefore, I believed reggae was the most fitting tool to carry my message to every listener.
_Who are your biggest musical influences, both within the reggae genre and outside of it ?
Some of my biggest influences dont even fall near the reggae genre. I admire the late DMX for his ability to express tremendous conviction in his vocals and lyrics, while I am a hue fan of Michael Jackson’s impeccable work ethics. Then theres the backstreet boys who just know how to carry a sweet melody! I’m a fan of crystal fighters for their ability to be weird and experiment with the creation and performance process. Then there’s the artistes like Peter Tosh, Bob Marley who inspires me to stay true to the purpose of my music, always ensure to create something not just for entertainment, but for something bigger than myself.
_How do you see the role of reggae music in today’s global music scene, and where do you see yourself fitting into that landscape ?
In today’s global music scene, I think reggae has evolved tremendously, and has penetrated almost every genre there is, as it should. Because to me reggae is what we call “Message music”, a music that is able to influence in a positive direction, not just for the sole purpose of entertainment, and that is where I hope to journey. To evolve, and take my music and message to every crease and corner of this world.
_What do you hope listeners take away from your music, and what message or themes do you try to convey through your lyrics ?
I have written about many topics and will continue to write about even the politically incorrect ones! However within every song, the message I hope that everyone can take away is the importance of unbiased reasoning, and positive thinking. I believe with those two tools, any person can overcome any obstacle or challenge.
_Can you describe your creative process when it comes to writing and recording new music ?
In my creative process I always aim to first rid myself of external influences, allow my mind to focus on the message I feel most passionate about at the moment, and try to place myself physically in an experience I hope my listeners will feel while enjoying my creations. Most of my music was written on a journey to a quiet spot at the beach, or beneath a beautiful tree, far from people, with my cellphone on airplane mode so there is no distractions, no other influences but the purity of nature around me.
_How has growing up and living in Grenada influenced your music, both lyrically and musically ?
Grenada has always been a rhythmic island, though I believe we are young when it comes to modern day musical structure, we have so many elements of tribal music which stems from Africa. And these rhythms has definitely been embedded within me, as well as the culture of our people. And even in more recent years, Grenada’s revolution in 1979, has been a massive influencer to me, though I wasn’t present at the time, the stories of the resilience of the people, the unity of the people, and the strength of the people has always reminded me of the power we possess as a people, and has influenced me to make it my duty to share my realizations in hopes to make people aware of the potential we carry if we only unite to one cause, and for the sole benefit of our people and its generations to come.
_How has your music been received in Grenada and other parts of the Caribbean, and what kind of feedback have you received from fans ?
Grenada is more affectionately known for its Soca music, so at first it was a bit difficult getting the listening ear that I needed, due to everyone trying to figure out why reggae and not Soca, since I live on a soca island. However, with persistence and dedication, my music has been widely accepted amongst reggae loving audiences, and even some soca lovers as well.
_Can you tell us about some of your most memorable performances or achievement, either in Grenada or elsewhere ?
To me, every opportunity to connect and share with just one person is a memorable achievement! However, some experiences are just overwhelmingly great! Like my performance at the 2017 Pure Grenada Music Festival, while performing my single “Back To Afrika”, I broke into tears because of the sincere passion I felt while reciting those lyrics up there on stage. Every opportunity to make one step toward my mission to affect permanent positive change with my music, is a notable experience for me.
A#keem Acoustics — Back to Afrika | A#keem ft KeyFlavourz
_Finally, what’s next for you in terms of new music or other creative projects, and what can your fans look forward to in the coming months and years ?
Up next, I aim to connect more with people not via social media, but real life face to face contact. I aim to do lots more local, regional, and international performances as I believe the best way to share reasoning and knowledge is via conversation, and the best kind of conversation is face to face where you can feel my energy, hear my tone, witness my facial expressions, see the sweat and tears, and truly connect with what I have to offer.
Over the past 6 years, A#keem has learned so much about music production and the art of creating a song in general that has definitely influenced some major adjustments in his art. He prays that the listeners will enjoy and find inspiration from it.
Follow A#keem on Instagram | Youtube
