Shagray dreaming of a music career

Dane Johnson of Big Pond, Bannister, in Old Harbour, St Catherine, is happily married and working to take care of his family.

But as challenging as it might be, the 37-year-old said that he is still clinging to a dream that has been evading him for years. Johnson told THE WEEKEND STAR that he has always thought about making it into the music business as a singjay. Listing Shaggy and Rayvon as his musical idols, he said even his moniker 'Shagray' shows the respect he has for them.

Stating that others would think he is crazy for pursuing his passion after so long, he said he can't let go.

"I am an aspiring artiste, just deh yah a try work and going to studio more while when a get the time. But you know the industry kinda hard inna Jamaica but wi still a try," he said, adding that he doesn't have the 'link' where he can get to voice for free in a studio. So he tries to fund the sessions when he can.

With three children and a wife to care for, he said, it limits his ability to go after his dreams, as right now his chicken coop and hog pen are both empty, as the COVID-19 pandemic hit him hard and he is yet to find the means to restock.

Still, these setbacks have not robbed him of his desire to press on, as on days when he is tempted to get discouraged, he said he puts those emotions to music, penning lyrics and voicing them. No topic, he says, escapes his pen. Johnson still thinks there is time to achieve his dreams as it is never too late to go after what you want.

"Been trying over the years and it never really work. Mi try the Magnum ting (Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall competition), fit in likkle studio time. Every spare time I get I work at it," he said. And should he get the break he is seeking, Johnson says it will be all about positivity as he believes songs are meant to uplift and inspire.