Dexta Daps hails his ‘brother’ Determine - Says late singjay was a pioneer, genuine supportive friend

Dancehall sensation Dexta Daps, who shared a close friendship with the late dancehall legend Determine, said the singer was more than a musician, but a "genuine, supportive" friend to many.

The Wuk Fi Mine artiste said he would love for Determine's legacy and personality to live on positively.

"I want Determine's music to be remembered for its uplifting messages. And as a friend, I hope people remember him for his kindness and that infectious spirit. His legacy should be one of resilience and inspiration for everyone," Dexta Daps told THE STAR.

The bubbly and free spirited artiste, who is known for his satirical and fun posts on his socials, has recently been plunged into a dark place as seen through his heartfelt posts and throwback videos of Determine, who he referred to as his 'brother'. In reminiscing on the reggae-dancehall heavyweight, Dexta Daps said the hurt he felt is deeper than losing a colleague but a true friend.

"Determine was a true pioneer in reggae - his music was real and full of passion. He wrote about struggle and love, which many people connected with. As a friend, he was genuine, supportive, and always had that warm spirit that lit up the room," Dexta Daps shared.

Determine, who was born Rohan Bennett, died on February 13 while being treated at a hospital in Baltimore, USA, following his long battle with cancer. The Rastafarian singer, who became prominent for his 1995 international Nyahbinghi hit, Kette Drum - a Beenie Man collaboration, first started out in the music space performing on sound systems. Some of his earlier singles, which include Shaka Zulu, Zion Hill and Dem No Know Love were among the artiste's other notable tracks which saw him travelling globally, forming lasting friendships and genuine bonds.

Since the veteran singjay's passing, several industry players such as producers Patrick Roberts and Bertie Grant and artiste Anthony B have expressed deep "sadness and disbelief". Similarly, for Dexta Daps, he recalled that hearing the news really hit hard.

"When I heard about Determine's passing, I was shocked. I felt a deep sense of loss and disbelief," an emotional Dexta Daps expressed. However, he said in order to cope, he has been "vibing to his [Determine's] music, sharing memories with friends, and focusing on how to celebrate his legacy".

In another emotionally charged, tear-filled video which has now gone viral on social media, one woman who went by the handle 'Gifted_hands_876,' revealed that she was going through a state of depression and with her gun clenched in her hands, was about to end her life, when a persistent Determine, along with Dexta Daps, convinced her not to commit the act. She hailed Determine as "God sent [and] an amazing friend" while expressing appreciation to the artistes for saving her life.

Dexta Daps, who was celebrating his birthday at the time, said that when he was asked to engage in a conversation with the woman, who was then a stranger, he did so without hesitation.

"I just felt this strong urge to connect. In tough times, having someone to listen makes all the difference. I sensed she needed support and hope," Dexta Daps stated in responding to what drove him to offer the needed moral strength.

"Those [three] hours were a rollercoaster of emotions. I felt urgency and empathy, trying to keep calm and create a safe space for her. Every moment counted and I was all in to help the best way I could," the emotional singer shared.