NewzKINGSTON, Jamaica — Rising dancehall artiste Jay-A has spent years learning from dancehall royalty. Now, armed with hard-earned lessons, international experience and a new EP loaded with purpose, the Miami-based Jamaican artiste is stepping forward to claim his own spotlight. Born Tarik Morris, Jay-A is preparing to release Quick7, a project whose title captures both his spiritual outlook and the urgency driving this stage of his career.
“The ‘Quick’ represents the urgency. It means I’m ready right now,” he explained. The number seven, meanwhile, is deeply personal.
“Seven is my favourite number because I believe it describes me as a person,” Jay-A said. “It often symbolises completeness, perfection and divine fulfilment. God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh.” For Jay-A, the number also represents wisdom, intuition, deep thinking, learning and spiritual growth—qualities he believes are reflected throughout his music.
“Seven describes me and my music,” he said. Quick7 brings together a formidable production team that includes Justus, Spongmusic, iamwav and Starzplus. Jay-A also takes a seat behind the boards, adding producer to his growing list of creative roles.
That hands-on approach is fitting for an artiste whose journey has carried him through several corners of Jamaica and into some of dancehall’s most respected circles. Raised initially in Montego Bay before moving to St Elizabeth and later Kingston, Jay-A was surrounded by music from an early age. His father, entertainer Peter St Patrick, provided the first spark, inspiring his son to follow him into the business.
Jay-A would eventually become part of the Gullyside movement alongside Mavado, gaining a front-row education in the mechanics of dancehall stardom. He also developed a close brotherly relationship with Dexta Daps, whom he regards as both family and teacher. “It’s always an amazing learning experience and a pleasure working with the family,” Jay-A said.
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