Like a besotted lover, Jamaican roots-reggae singer cum songwriter Desbert Johnson, 42, better known as Chezidek, appears entranced by his music, humming it gingerly.
He occasionally purses his lips, bobs his head and stares into space, but his passion is palpable as he lets his mouth speak on his behalf- as he sings along to some of his popular tunes with amazing synchronization setting the pace for the partying mood.
This was last Saturday night at the Sarakasi Dome, Ngara, Nairobi where the artist who visited Kenya and Africa for the first time, had the chance to headline his premier show dubbed Inna Di Road Reggae Festival at the Sarakasi Dome, Nairobi.
The event courtesy of Chini ya Miti Promotions and Rockers Entertainment saw hundreds of fans present at the venue ‘eat’ from the palms of his hand as he unleashed some of his popular hits. Many of which boast of a brand new fusion style and a more contemporary feel.
Prior to this performance, renowned local reggae deejay Lastborn churned out the best and latest of reggae music as fans danced and sang along with a section of fans trying to outdo one other on the latest dancing styles.
Soon after, local curtain raisers Haille Selassie Foundation from Kibera, were introduced on stage amidst cheers from fans. Their unique and sensational performance that lasted for an hour paved way for the man of the moment – Chezidek, who was backed by local band, Zion I.
Known for his unique style, quality music and energetic stage performances, he gave fans a blend of different self-made harmonic, melodic and rhythmic identity, with powerful, healing and conscious messages.
Some of his popular songs include Call Pon Dem, No More War, Cant Hear Must Feel, Fight, Inna De Road and Leave De Trees.
“I am glad to be in Kenya, a beautiful and amazing country with hospitable people,” he said in between his performance.
He added: “The fact that people here love and appreciate my music is a sign that I am headed in the right direction and hope to continue doing so.”
Chezidek, who jetted in the country a week before his concert said he fell in love with the sights and sounds of Kenya, despite this being his first visit.
Even before shaking off the jet lag, the fast rising entertainer still found time to sign autographs and pose with fans for photos before granting The Standard an exclusive interview.
Having grown up in Jamaica, he explains that although his music is loved and appreciated by a large section of Africans and around the globe he had never received an invitation to perform in Africa, let alone Kenya.
“Now that I have been invited to Kenya by my music lovers, who have kept Jamaican music in their hearts, I will not hesitate to do return should they ask that of me,” says the musician who describes music as a wide platform used to highlight human rights, among other environmental issues which he champions.
So does he ever feel like his music has an impact?
“Of course, the fact that people listen and appreciate it, besides igniting something in them that moves them to fight for their rights is a good sign,” says chizedek whose latest album The Order of Melchezedik highlights events about Africa among other life issues.
The artist whose name Melchizedek, stems from the priest of the most-high God later changed it to Chezidek. He says he has been growing his dreads since 1994.
Without mincing words he describes Jamaican dancehall music as less serious music meant for teenagers.
“When you grow up and mature you naturally want things that are more positive and meaningful and that is found in Jamaican roots and reggae music which encompasses meditation, conscious and powerful positive messages,” says the musician who is also a farmer.
So then is he married? A father of many kids, Chezidek admits he is single but hopes to find a wife in Kenya.
His musical career:
Discovered by record producer Philip Burrell of the Xterminator Production, way back as teenager then based at St Ann’s Bay for Kingston upon completing school, his love for music saw him record his debut album Harvest Time in 2002.
His first number one hit single, Leave De Trees, was rated top on BBC dancehall chart. Since then he has performed on major events such as Magnum Sting, Teen Splash, Dancehall Jam Jam, Bob Marley Tribute, and Tribute to Peter Tosh, Rebel Salute and Western Consciousness.
The musician with six albums was awarded best new artiste by the Jamaica Federation of Music and Affiliated Artiste (JFM) for Middlesex (County).
