Passionate talent D'Mario 'Deemo' Patterson shares perspectives on new gen dancehall, composing hits, and navigating egos: "talent without hard work is nothing"
D'Mario 'Deemo' Patterson, composing hits for many new-gen dancehall artists
Technology has not only transformed the business market for many young artists but also opened doors for numerous emerging producers.
D'Mario 'Deemo' Patterson is one such individual who has reaped the benefits of the digital age. By working diligently every day, he has achieved recognition over time for his contributions to major dancehall hits, particularly with new-generation artists.
"I think seeing that we’re more in a technological/technical age of society, streaming helps as it's more in tune with the generation nowadays. Albeit not necessarily a good thing because the quality of music being released drops, but it opens up more opportunities for everyone to make a living through music", Deemo expressed about the streaming age.
"strive to be the best you can be"
It was when he was contacted about Masicka's 'Grandfather' around 2020 that he gained recognition. "A social media post previewed the track, and I realized it was my beat! I have a lot of respect for Masicka, and he's one of my favorites in dancehall", Deemo recalled. "This placement meant a lot to me, and the recognition goes to Damage Musiq and T5. Shoutout to them."
Describing his talent and passion for music, he said, "I consider myself one of the best in this era. My peers (Mxssivh, Prod. Carter, and Waysett) and I push each other to sharpen our skills and work ethics. My passion for music started has been curated over the years since I was seven after my mother bought me a drum set. That was the beginning of my journey, including participating in JCDC competitions at the local and national levels. With this foundation, my passion will never subside."
Portraying himself as someone who "can just go with any and everything for inspiration," Deemo is a man of hard work and appreciates those similar to him. "The current dancehall scene is good—there's a lot of potential there, but no one is willing to take the necessary steps and risks to push themselves further. Everyone is just looking for quick success instead of thinking long-term. The amount of talent present is abundant, no doubt, but talent without hard work is nothing. I, myself, am talented, but I also value hard work."
"Jamaican music is significant in many ways, but nowadays, people often see it as a way out or a last resort for success. While it may seem simple to outsiders, those with true passion elevate the culture and genre to a global audience", Patterson added.
Known for composing the beats of Valiant and Stalk Ashley's hit 'Narcissist' with Mxssivh (Which racked up 30 million views so far), Mallie Donn's 'Rum Behavior,' and many others including Chronic Law, Jahshii, and Rygin King, he spends hours in the studio navigating egos and challenges. "In the Dancehall industry, I have encountered many egos. Either way, my headspace is more focused on getting work done and everything after, in terms of conversations and relationships. The workflow is pretty smooth with these artists."
Recently collaborating with rising star Armanii for his tune 'Winnings Ah Run,' which serves as part of a Flow ad, Deemo said, "It feels really great. I treat that Armanii ad like a placement. Everywhere I go, I hear it. My family and friends all tell me they've heard it, and to me, that's one of the reasons I do this—the pleasure and pride that comes with knowing your work is out there being heard and consumed in a good way."
"The current dancehall scene is good—there's a lot of potential there, but no one is willing to take the necessary steps and risks to push themselves further".
Advising rising composers and producers, the 21-year-old talent shared, "It is important to strive to be the best you can be. Mentality is something we lack today within the dancehall space, and it also has to do with the way you think and process your thoughts. Last but not least, the most important factor is to involve God. I know that I am talented, but without God, I am nothing."
Deemo looks ahead to a bright future, stating, "There is a distinct difference between being the best and being the best version of yourself. I am more focused on the latter to be the best producer I can be. I aim to achieve what the greats have already accomplished—Grammys, Billboards, and more. Anything that comes with my passion for music and work ethic, I gladly accept, but I am solely focused on being the best I can be."
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