Interview: Tray Goal Ravers speaks on his journey from working with dancing legend Ding Dong to styling stars: "I know I belong here"
Tray Goal Ravers, Merging dancing and fashion
Combining dancing and styling, Kenniel Byfield, known as Tray Goal Ravers, is a rising Jamaican entrepreneur who excels in multiple fields. He has danced alongside dancehall artist Ding Dong and his Ravers crew in recent years while also developing a career as a stylist. Among his clients are the dancehall artists such as Valiant, Byron Messia, Armanii, as well as DJ Mac and Jiggy D.
"My journey as a dancer has been absolutely incredible. I started dancing at around the age of 4, mainly because I grew up around dancing. My father was in a well-known group called Blue Roses and took me to some of his shows where I competed with other kids. From then, I knew I loved the art of dancing", he shared in an interview with Kaboom Magzine. "However, if I had to choose a career highlight, I’d say it’s just being on stage with today’s most beloved dancing legend, Ding Dong. Dancing with him and the way the entire team embraced me is something I will never forget."
Crafting unique styles for Dancehall’s Finest
Drawing from his stage experiences with Ding Dong, he found his footing as a stylist. "My experience as a dancer has influenced my approach both in fashion and styling. It's like being an artist. In the sense of creating an image in my head and bringing it to life, the only difference is that instead of painting, I’m doing it through clothes."
Describing his style as modern and urban, Trey strives to stand out as a stylist. "It reflects in my styling work by allowing me to stand out from the crowd. For example, someone and I might have the same taste in fashion, but the way I put my pieces together would make you wonder if we shopped at the same stores or not." However, he still faces challenges. "My challenge was being able to have my own identity, in the sense of standing out. I overcame it by being consistent and open to new ideas, trends, and styles."
Naturally, everything relies on chemistry. "First it has to be a conversation about whether or not they trust my judgment. My main focus is to make the client look like a star, artistic and different. I try to create unique pieces because many celebrities love the idea of a one-of-a-kind item."
Recalling a proud experience, he says, "A high-status client once came to me for styling advice. He usually wore skinny jeans and a normal shirt, but he gave me free rein. I styled him in an oversized shirt and personalized shorts with custom accessories. The positive feedback he received was amazing, and he has kept me as his personal stylist ever since."
The way I see styling and put pieces together is being recognized by many artists and people. I know I belong here."
Inspired by musical icons like Gunna, Pharrell, Fiercebydre, Rema, Bobbyfresh, Wizkid, ASAP Rocky, and Stefon Diggs, he offers advice to young stylists: "Be true to yourself. Don’t be afraid to unlock new levels in your life. Don’t stick to one style of fashion, and stand strong in your vision. God gave you the vision, not the person with their opinion."
When Tray fulfills his passion for styling, he actively pursues it. "I wouldn’t say I am transitioning from dancing to styling; it’s more about realizing my gift in fashion. The way I see styling and put pieces together is being recognized by many artists and people. I know I belong here."
"What I enjoy most is when someone doubts my vision, but when it’s all put together, their reactions are fascinating to see. Right then and there, they have no choice but to respect me as a stylist and recognize the value of my work," he emphasized.
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