Singjay D’Yani hoping for better months ahead

Talking about how the local music industry has changed amid the pandemic, recording artiste D'Yani said navigating the digital space has made the world smaller and brought many artistes closer to international markets.

"The space between the local and international music industry is starting to look smaller -- meaning less distant, and the way people connect has improved, which makes it a bigger move for artistes like me," D'Yani told THE STAR.

Entertainment has slowed down, being among the most adversely hit sectors, but the Heaven Telegram singer hasn't stepped on the brakes.

He said, "It was over this challenging period that I got the most highlight."

D'Yani has been busy promoting his singles Feelings and Birthday, and a collaboration with Maestro Don, titled Senorita.

Recording artistes and musicians have proven themselves flexible with the way they have adapted throughout the pandemic, he says, noting that for many it is not so much of a change, as the digital platforms were open for them to showcase talent before, but more of a reprieve. Sometimes the space is "saturated and stagnant" with gloomy reports related to the pandemic and other disasters that can change how people function.

Despite feeling bombarded by the news of COVID-19 cases and curfews, the singer-songwriter, whose given name is Andre Chavanie McCormack said, "these things are necessary for us, creatives, to function."

He says the pandemic has affected how he functions daily, but he does not allow it to get in the way of achieving his goals.

"It is a new age of humanity, that is, living under these conditions, but the more information we have access to, the better we can function," D'Yani said, adding, that "a lot of people, not just within the music industry are learning the meaning of acceptance."

The greatest lesson he has learnt being in a lockdown and following protocols is "to make the best out of a bad situation".

He said, "There's only one life, and we only have one opportunity to live it. So, do what needs to be done, and while doing so, don't doubt yourself."

D'Yani, like many practitioners, is anticipating the Government's next move as Jamaica prepares for the summer -- a season when the calendar is usually filled with events, from album release parties to stage shows. With the upcoming sitting of the House of Representatives today, he says he has his fingers crossed that something positive will come out of it for the entertainment sector.

"I would hope it will change," he said about the curfew and gathering restrictions. "There is a lot of work that needs to be done outside."