Deno Crazy thrilled to ‘edutain’ about dancehall

From making people laugh on social media to starring in music videos, Deno Crazy has always had a knack for entertainment.

His energy, comedic timing and deep connection to dancehall culture have made him a standout personality in the space. Now, as the host of Magnum Tonic Wine Weh Yuh Know Bout Dancehall, produced by Jussbuss TV, Deno Crazy is stepping into a new role - educating, entertaining and inspiring what could be the next generation of dancehall creators. Over the past two years, he has made a name for himself not just as a 'joker', but as a recording artiste, dropping tracks like Polo Fi Days, Thunda, the hit collaboration with dancehall deejay 450, Move On, Love Language, God N Time, and Mercedes.

His experience in both entertainment and dancehall makes him the perfect host for the show, where he brings humour, knowledge and authenticity to the series. The production of the television series, which premiered recently on TVJ, took Deno Crazy across Jamaica, from Kingston to Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.

"I love being in the streets with the people and showing my lifestyle beyond just being a comedian. One of my most memorable interactions was when the team went [to] downtown waterfront. The people them really came out to play," Deno Crazy said.

He continued, "This series brings dancehall right to the people, making it interactive for everyone."

As an artiste, Deno Crazy said he understands the importance of respecting dancehall's roots and celebrating acts that emerged before his time. He admitted that even he has made mistakes when it comes to the facts, but that it's all part of the learning process. He also hailed dancehall star Govana for giving him an opportunity to showcase his talent early in his career. He emphasised that creating laughable content brings him peace but despite being a comedian, Deno Crazy has a serious perspective on his career and about life.

"The business side of it is serious, and requires a lot of focus. You have to have your mind in the right space and be willing to learn, and grow. Personally, yuh caan act like you're bigger than everybody else," he said.

Deno Crazy continued, "Me love every obstacle me face, because it give me motivation to drive harder. One obstacle me face daily is people telling me that this is not me, or trying to discourage me. I am a prover...and I have proved them wrong. I continue to dream big, knowing one day me must become a star."

Through Weh Yuh Know Bout Dancehall, he hopes to help to make more Jamaicans appreciate the genre's impact, while furthering his career on national television. For aspiring dancehall creators looking to make a mark, especially those without access to certain opportunities, Deno Crazy advises them to never give up.

"Keep trying because when you fail, the win is right around the corner. Be yourself, stay unique, believe in yourself and put in the work," he said. "If you fall, get up, brush off and dweet again. If you have the guts for it, don't let anything stop you. Nobody nah give you no handouts, and nobody will support you like you support yourself. Me also believe [that] when you do good, good follow you."