Dexta Daps (Jamaica)

Representing Seaview Gardens, the same Kingston community which gave us Bounty Killer, Shabba Ranks and Elephant Man, Dexta Daps is already well on his way to becoming dancehall’s next marquee name. The young artist was responsible for some of 2015’s biggest hits in Jamaica, including “7 Eleven,” and “Shabba Madda Pot.” It seems that he’s just getting started; with the latter still picking up traction, and a gang of new tunes dropping, expect to hear this Daseca affiliate’s voice even more frequently this year. —Jesse Serwer

How would you describe your sound?

My sound is different. That’s the main thing I always try to achieve during my creative process… I also try to bring sexiness into dancehall, while maintaining that hardcore edge.

Tell us a little bit about the place you come from…

Where I come from it’s like a college. Along the way, you learn about all aspects of life. Seaview Gardens, you know, it’s the kind of place that teaches you to learn every level of life and aim to be anything you want…trades or a doctor you can be if you want… it’s also the home of some of the greatest Jamaican artistes.

Tell us about the moment where you knew you had broken through as an artist…

I knew it had started to happen when my phone just started going crazy… Everybody started calling my phone, and asking for dubplates. I knew the tables were turning, because I used to be asking people if they want dubs.

What were your highlights in 2015?

Well, I’ve been traveling almost every week around the world. There has been a lot of memorable performances and experiences, and then of course “7 Eleven,” “Morning Love,” “Shabba Madda Pot,” and “Jealous Ova.” Those were some of my biggest musical highlights that set the standards… it let people know that we can do it. It gave us some roots, so we know the tree is growing.

What should we expect to see and hear from you in 2016?

Continued growth in my career. I’m currently working on my debut album. I also have a lot of shows coming up that I’m really looking forward to. It’s going to be a very busy year on the road for me,and I have to make sure the tree keeps growing. You can stay updated with me along the way too at DextaDaps.com…all my music, videos, concert listings, its all there for you.

What artists are you watching in 2016?

What do you mean? Dexta Daps…lol. Let me tell you who I’m watching: Tifa, Spice, all of the female artists. That’s who I’m watching.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExQPYxiI5DU