Jamaican producer and artist KaleX seamlessly fuses the rhythms of Jamaican Dancehall with the underground South African genre of "Amapiano," taking it to dance floors worldwide
Jamaican based Producer/Artiste KaleX (Photo : Jik Reuben)
Jamaican producer/artist KaleX gains global dance scene recognition, appearing at James Blake's pre-Grammy party in Los Angeles alongside top-tier DJs like Kaytranada and No I.D. His December 2023 mixtape "This is JAMApiano" under the Trifactor label, blending South African sounds with dancehall, paved the way for this achievement.
KaleX, known for his work with Jamaican dancehall icons like Popcaan and Vybz Kartel, as well as emerging talents such as Zhayna and Amanyea, recently teamed up with Royal Blu and Runkus for their performance at the Lost in Time Festival. However, it was Sire Dhone Johnson, an Ethiopian "Music Facilitator," and Tara Johnson, Managing Director of Harry J Studio, who introduced him to the underground South African genre of "Amapiano." Guided by Sire and Tara, KaleX delved into the sounds and culture of Amapiano, blending it with Dancehall to create a fusion they call "JAMApiano."
"I have a new interest in blending genres after the performance in California because I saw first-hand how Jamaican music mixed with any other genre moves people," expressed KaleX. "The feeling of seeing something you create get people raving is unmatched; it shows the power of music no matter where it is made,." Joined by his Hype Man Aundre "Riddim Boss" Edwards, their performances embody the exhilaration of street dance infused with the high-energy Afro-club sound that is garnering global acclaim.
Drawing inspiration from his architectural background, KaleX dives into live performances, infusing his music with energy and captivating audiences. His "JAMApiano" project gains traction internationally, opening doors for collaborations and performances. Locally, it sparks the creation of the "This is JAMApiano" event series at Harry J Studio, where KaleX and Riddim Boss blend dancehall remixes with Afro sounds, featuring surprise cameo performances by emerging artists riding the JAMApiano "riddim." The next event is set for March 28, 2024, promising an electrifying experience.
