Savage in talks with NY-based label

Dancehall artiste Savage is looking to expand his horizons for 2018, and is eyeing the international market after beginning talks with a New York-based label.

The artiste, who is currently signed to Digital One and

managed by Richard Roach, made the revelation via Instagram last week. Roach confirmed it with THE STAR in a recent interview.

Although the deal is not officially done, Roach believes it will materialise, and said that Savage's fans can expect an album or an EP to come from the partnership.

Roach said that there is no timeline for the project's completion and distribution, but said that it will showcase the versatility of his artiste.

Roach was tight-lipped about details of the label deal, but explained that the contract could lead to Savage becoming a crossover dancehall act.

"We have been in talks, and although we are not giving up our core dancehall audience, we are looking to do some more work internationally," he said. "It's all about timing. There are many sides to Savage and we think it's time to reveal some more of who he is as an entertainer. There is a lot he wants to do internationally, and he is definitely laying the groundwork to ensure he gets to his intended audience."

Roach expressed that Savage has been spending much time overseas in the last few months, hoping to build a stronger following outside of Jamaica.

He said that Savage's international fan base has grown, and he expects that trend to continue for 2018, especially when the new deal comes through.

"Most artistes say that they feel more love overseas than in Jamaica. It's not to say we (Jamaicans) do not appreciate our own, but our material is usually more attractive to outsiders," he explained. "We have to get into the audience that can buy songs on iTunes (and other platforms). We are not running away from Jamaica, but we have to also spread our wings in this industry."

Savage is currently pushing his single Whine Mama, as well as a collab with Jah Vinci titled Poco Wine.

He is also in the process of creating the Whine Mama remix, which will feature a Trinidadian soca star.