Jahmiel (Jamaica)

Photo: Varun Baker

Fresh off a well-received performance at Sting, and with several singles getting extensive rotation in Jamaica, 24-year-old Jahmiel Foster is poised to be a dominant force in 2016. The Portmore-born singjay began recording at 12, releasing tracks with Young Vibez, TJ Records, Brit Jams, U.I.M. and Head Concussion Records. The Quantanium Records production “Gain the World” is Jahmiel’s biggest song to date, landing a slot on the latest edition of VP Records’ Strictly the Best. Currently signed to City Rock Entertainment in Dallas, Texas, the budding young star is also receiving love from fellow artists, like the Gully God Mavado, who called Jahmiel out on stage during his recent Rebel Salute performance. Jahmiel has already proven his ability to seamlessly blend reggae and dancehall genres in a creative and refreshing style. He writes his own lyrics, all infused with positive messages of hope and determination. This talented voice is surely an artist to look out for in 2016. —Selector Iscious

How would you describe your sound?

My sound comes from a place of truth. If I had to use a word or two to describe it, I would say mature and bass and sincere.

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

I come from a place in Portmore, St. Catherine called Passage Fort. I grew up in a mixed community, with some middle-class families. Passage Fort is a unified community, a loving set of people and a community of musicians and lovers of music. In the community, we had our studio, which we could go and voice and freestyle.

What were your highlights in 2015?

Seeing the success of “Gain the World” and how it hit so many charts across the world and even received No.1 recognition on many charts outside of Jamaica. Also the follow up success and love for “True Colours” as I felt the masses beginning to gravitate to my music. Sting was another highlight for me. It was my first time getting a major billing at Sting.

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

Look out for more positive, uplifting music and bigger and better things from Jahmiel. People can also look out for me in their city, as I begin to get bookings outside of Jamaica.

Which artists are you watching in 2016? 

To be honest, the music can be so spontaneous, you never know who can stand out. You have a whole lot of talented youths, just like no one knew Jahmiel would of been that “next” artist. I know that nuff great ones are out there and the world and myself will soon see and hear them as well.