Devin Di Dakta calls 2021 the beginning of his career
Published:Saturday | December 18, 2021 | 12:07 AMStephanie Lyew/Gleaner Writer
Recording artiste Devin Di Dakta’s philosophy on life and love is, “Never to waste time on perfection or else nothing will be, and it’s best to be than to be perfect”.
In a recent interview with The Gleaner, the Psych Ward lyricist shared that most of the knowledge he has gained since embarking on a career as a recording artiste has been through research, as well as trial and error.
“The major growth for me is learning from my mistakes. I identify them and find ways to better myself. Knowledge-wise, I ask a lot of questions, read books and study people who are already successful in the areas I want to be,” Devin Di Dakta said.
He added that with his latest project, the Freshman EP, “it is a presentation of me feeling fresh on the scenes with all the knowledge and ideas I’ve acquired within, I would say, the past two years. I’m finally in a place where I can confidently say ‘Yes, I’m ready’ and so, moving forward, people will hear and see the growth.”
Devin Di Dakta’s journey started in 2012 as the Tastee Talent Trail winner, but after winning the Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall competition in 2015, he became a household name. In less than a year, he worked with Sly & Robbie on their Grammy-nominated album Reggae For Her.
EXPLORING THE MATURE SIDE OF MUSIC
The dancehall act shows a more exploratory and mature side musically, with many of the featured songs incorporating sexually suggestive lyrics. When asked if he felt pressured by society to produce raunchy, hardcore dancehall in 2021, Devin Di Dakta explained that “unless it is social commentary, society has absolutely no effect on my music. Whenever I have something to say, I’m going to say it. If at any point I say something and it’s wrong, anybody can feel free to correct me, and I will stand corrected. But I’m definitely going to say something. Not everything worth studio time either, so I’ll be in the comment section of social media whenever I feel like.
“Though a few of the songs are about lovemaking, they’re not overly explicit nor degrading to women in any way. It might be a bit more over the edge than I would normally go, but I’ve been releasing sexually suggestive songs ... it’s just that it’s easy for me to perform the cleaner versions on stage, where I was most present,” he further explained.
A student of ’80s and ’90s dancehall, he collaborated with producer Romario ‘Romieikon’ English on the single Pretty Pretty, which has been doing well on several international charts. Devin Di Dakta anticipates Billboard recognition for the album, having already hit the Hot Rock Songs chart with a song titled Oh Devil that he was featured on by Los Angeles-based band Electric Guest.
“I only make music that I enjoy, and immediately, the beat steered my lyrics in hardcore direction, and with my delivery, the track is a sure shot. The feedback has been great so far, despite any criticisms,” he said.
“I know I’ve grown in the eyes of those who are watching, and for those who dozed off, I’m sure they’ll wake up to a new me. This is literally the beginning of my career,” Devin Di Dakta declared.