Recording artists Wesrok and Masicka recently teamed up for a single that fuses their respective country-reggae and dancehall sounds.
During a video shoot on Sunday, they spoke about the inspiration behind the project in an interview with THE STAR, where the theme of dancehall authenticity was also addressed.
“First of all, it’s just the message of the song that made me want to be a part of it; it’s a positive message,” Masicka said. The Troyton Music production, titled Try to hold me, talks about the struggle and the act of repression among the people while remaining optimistic through it all. Masicka said it was a good experience working with Wesrok, describing the singer as a “humble person”. Although his image is that of a hardcore dancehall artist, he said he listens to all genres of music and has a few country and western favorites.
“I love Kenny Rogers’ The player and that of his daughter – Butterfly kisses. Music remains a universal language and, personally, I listen to all types of music. Me, I would maybe do all the genres if I could, but you know the saying “touch everything, master nothing”, [so] I’m just trying to master dancehall and reggae right now, ”he shared.
Masicka does not believe that collaborations like Try to hold me or the fusion of other genres with dancehall affects the authenticity.
“It can’t take it away; if someone sees the music or tries to mimic the sound and push it forward, they don’t. But users must credit the origin [of the music]. As long as this is in perspective, we cannot lose the authenticity, ”he said. “When the music grows, you don’t lose the authenticity. Dancehall is evolving and people are afraid of change, but you know you can’t keep it in a little box forever. “
“The only way to lose the authenticity of a genre is if the younger generation isn’t educated or isn’t keen on maintaining the culture,” proposed Wesrok. He explained that a fusion of genres and sounds like country and western and reggae, called country-reggae, along with dancehall, only shows the dynamic nature of sound.
“It’s not static; that doesn’t mean we can’t be creative with sound. Dancehall first evolved from reggae, and reggae evolved for many years from others. For me, it’s about sending a message to different audiences and, if my goal is to reach a wider audience, the music – the sound – has to be relevant and engaging, ”explained Wesrok.
He was delighted to finally meet Masicka to record the official video. With the successful release of Update deejay’s album last month he said “now is the time to do it”.
“I want to reach as many people in our small world as possible and I chose to make that connection with dancehall, through Masicka, who Troyton said was the best choice. He has the talent, a lot of supporters. He has that flair and complements my voice well as a dancehall artist. We released a lyric video, but he was overseas and the time is right, “he said.
