Maverick: Noun- someone described as unconventional and freethinking; not subscribing to the path or outcome expected of them.
Marlon Dayes hails from Buff Bay, Portland, and to be honest, it could easily be said the cards were stacked against his success, and his life could have easily gone another route. Marlon, however, has the archetypical Jamaican mother in his corner, who knew her little boy was destined for bigger than what was in front of him at the time. Sacrificing to ensure his education never faltered, he went to Wolmer’s High School for Boys in Kingston, a good distance from his home town. He then went on to school in Florida where the Wolmer’s motto of doing everything you’re doing to the utmost kept him going, where he graduated with honours from Florida Tech. Marlon is an avid music listener and a big fan of Jamaica’s dancehall music, culture and is also active in the creative space. We were able to ground the pilot long enough to have some casual conversation with him recently about work and all his interests.
The Assertion Could Be Made That You Are One Of The Most Celebrated Young Pilots In The Aviation Industry. What Is It About The @876pilot Brand That You Think Is Resonating With So Many People Especially From The Younger Generation?
Marlon D: It’s definitely my story! It has been a remarkable journey that stemmed from humble beginnings and I believe this is why my story resonates with so many. Many aspiring pilots from the younger generation, in particular, gets an instant jolt of belief and motivation once they hear my story or my name is mentioned.
We Have Seen You Take Many Photos And Have Constant Engagement On Social Media With Popular Dancehall Entertainers. What Was One Of The Most Meaningful Moments, Conversations Or Affirmations Shared With You By A Dancehall Artist You Respect?
Marlon D: I can think of two very meaningful moments. The first moment was 2016 I posted a video with one of my favorite songs ‘Nah Idle’ by Popcaan and I posted the line ‘Wurl a drive and a me a the pilot’ moments later Popcaan liked the video and commented. It was memorable because I’m a big supporter of his story and his music especially since his story is similar to mine in some aspects.
The second moment was meeting Dexta Daps in Atlanta randomly. Due to the nature of my job I’ve met a lot of celebrities but this time was different. He was super cool and knowing he was from humble beginnings also was inspiring. We took a few pictures, talked and he expressed how proud he was of me and even reposted the picture on his Instagram.
Many People Are Still Critical Of Dancehall Music Because Of It’s Lyrical Content. You Have An Affinity Towards The Genre. What Are Some Of The Positive Unmentioned Aspects Of Dancehall That Has Inspired You On Your Journey As A Pilot?
Marlon D: I agree that many people are still critical of dancehall but it’s definitely not all negative. There’s a lot of inspirational songs in dancehall that I listen to as motivation daily to inspire me. I’m talking about songs like ‘Greatness’ by Masicka and ‘Unstoppable’ by Vybz Kartel to name a few. I’m a Jamaican and I’m proud of my culture, therefore, I embrace dancehall music and try to funnel out the good.
What Is Your Favorite Dancehall Riddim Of All Time?
Marlon D: My favorite dancehall riddim of all time is probably The Buzz Riddim released in 2001
Do You Still Get Nervous Before Flights?
Marlon D: Not at all. However, I was a little nervous prior to my first flight to Jamaica due to the occasion.
You Recently Conducted Your First Flight To Jamaica. What Was It Like To Fly Your People To Your Homeland For The First Time?
Marlon D: My recent flight to Jamaica was a dream. For as long as I can remember I’ve always wanted to fly home. My Jamaican people were so welcoming and had nothing but good things to say. On the descent into Norman Manley International airport about 100 miles away over Cuba, I saw Jamaica. I remember almost tearing up because I was so overjoyed. Seeing Jamaica for the first time from my office was a moment I’ll never forget.
Is There A Song Or Artist That You Have To Listen Before An Important Flight?
Marlon D: There are two songs that I listen to before most flights or whenever I need inspiration to do my best. These songs are ‘Dream’ by Popcaan and ‘They Don’t Know’ by Masicka. Both these songs are so relatable and are reminders of my road to success. When I listen to them I feel the power in the music.
Your Platform @Digitaldayes Depicts Your Work As A Videographer & Photographer. How Do You See Yourself Impacting The Creative Industry In Jamaica, Leveraging Your Platform As A Pilot With Your Creativity Behind Camera?
Marlon D: In regards to my platform @digitaldayes long term I’d love to create shorter documentaries for Jamaicans with good success stories in various career fields. Additionally, I’d love to get involved in the music industry because it’s such a big part of our culture and I love music. However, short term I need to invest a lot in the platform. I have a lot to learn and a lot to improve on because this is still very new to me. I’ll be the first to admit that I haven’t given it close to the attention and dedication it requires.
Working For A Huge Corporate American Company Such As Delta Airlines Must Come With A Tremendous Amount Of Pressure And A Significant Amount Of Rules That Must Be Strictly Adhered To. How Do You Maintain The Discipline To Function In Such A Structured Environment While Still Expressing Yourself And Pushing Your Culture Forward?
Marlon D: Working for a large company like Delta does come with its pressures because even outside of uniform you are still representing them. It’s a company that embraces our differences and allows us to be ourselves. The company culture is amazing and despite being so large it still feels like a close family. In regards to social media and our policies, a good gauge is if you’re not okay with it being on CNN or the New York Times don’t post it. I am always mindful of posts and think to myself if this goes viral will it be a good image for me and the company. Once that is kept in mind I am able to express myself and push my culture forward.
It is important for little boys to dream. These dreams need to be cradled and manicured and allowed to take root in fertile ground, given the right support and allowed to flourish. The dreams and aspirations of a little boy from Portland have produced one of the most recognizable faces in regional aviation, setting records, and representing the black green and gold of our island nation wherever the gulf stream may take him. May he fly long, and inspire a whole new generation of hotshot fly boys. Maverick himself would be proud.
