Think bigger! - Wayne Marshall talks diversification

Dancehall legend Wayne Marshall has underscored the need to break free from creative limitations, stressing the importance of diversification.

A dominant force in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Glory to God hitmaker has expanded his reach beyond music, tapping into television and digital media. He now hosts the TV show The Cut and plays a key role in his family's popular YouTube series, Meet the Mitchells.

"A lot of musicians have many great talents but are probably afraid to explore them because of the expectation of people," Marshall told THE STAR.

He said it is important for persons to "tap into different aspects of your talent, not limiting yourself in the box of music".

"I think it is good when we, as human beings, can test other aspects of our abilities and potential that we have that may lay dormant," the entertainer said.

While stepping away from the stage, Marshall focused on brand development, family life, and new creative ventures. His family's YouTube channel has become a major project, keeping them busy with marketing, promotions, and international engagements.

"The main thing we're up to is Meet the Mitchell's YouTube channel, which keeps us busy, a lot of marketing, promotion and travel. We are managers of a brand, and it keeps us growing. It keeps us close to family and keeps us connected with a worldwide diaspora."

After taking a brief hiatus, the dancehall star made an electrifying return at Campari's special edition Fri-Nally event last Friday at The Courtyard in St Andrew. The crowd went wild as he performed hit after hit, with fans singing along to every word.

"It definitely feels great to be back on stage, especially to a warm reception like what happened at Fri-Nally,with the crowd coming out singing along word for word with some of the tunes, it was just a great vibe," he shared with THE STAR.

"The fans deserve some love from me. So they can expect more of these performances. And, of course, my catalogue of music and my contribution also needs that type of celebration. And if I don't do it, nobody will."

Marshall had never completely left music, even if he had not been on stage. He has been using his creative energies to mentor his son, Geomar, who has his sight set on becoming an entertainer.

"I'm more facilitating the career of my son, Geomar, who is doing his thing and working every week in studio. So we stay creative and we stay writing. I have a couple unreleased gems. So definitely, for this year, I'm promising some new music for sure by the summer," he said.