‘Change is inevitable’, says Qyor

Qyor (pronounced Choir) is the name that recording artiste Chevaughn now answers to. Having formed a reputation as an outstanding vocalist and songwriter within the reggae and dancehall fraternity, he is finding that the right time manifested for a change.

"Change is inevitable; it wasn't a plan, it was more of an allowance," the singer told THE STAR. "I been wanting a change and it was fitting at this time to do so. I know for sure I had a nudge for some time and it was for me to allow and not miss the divine timing. No more resistance, just let it be."

As Chevaughn, he has recorded and toured with reggae-dancehall icons like Jimmy Cliff, Rita Marley and Tony Rebel, to name a few. The new name is inspired by the people and places that have had an influence on his career, says the singer-songwriter.

"Where I started singing was in a choir. So, it is even more fitting. It is a name that represents not just one the person but the people who inspired me - the collective energy around me," Qyor said.

He expressed that he is content with the way the change occurred, and that he wants long-standing supporters as well as new fans to pay more attention to the music than the artiste.

He explained, "The art comes first. Music is never something you can allow yourself to get used to. Open yourself to listen to new sounds, new styles and new songs and enjoy them for what they are."

Qyor's defines his new sound as 'Xoul', meaning an exotic soul. This, he says, can be heard and experienced in music like his latest single Be High, a collaboration with Kranium and Dexta Daps.

"My sound has always been a very soulful sound, and that's what I define even more now. In a fearless way, I am allowing this new genre to be something I represent, and there are friends of mine - Sherieta Lewis is one of them - that are 'xoul'," he said. "Kranium and Dexta Daps have a certain soul to them when they do dancehall projects - that's how we came to work together. There is soul that artistes bring to the table that is oftentimes not mentioned. I am advocating for more 'xoul from music'."

Be High comes as a kind of reminder and encouragement in a time when living in a pandemic has become very stressful for many. The single encourages listeners to take a moment and rise above it.