The youth shall lead the way. Making a statement that “dem Deh Yah,” the next generation of talent, has taken things to Skyline level, literally and figuratively.
“Deh Yah,” a youthful presentation of young artists and talents, was held at Skyline Levels, a beautiful getaway in the Jacks Hill area overlooking the Kingston lights. Presented by the upcoming duo “Friday Night Cru,” consisting of Damani Gardner and Djavan Warner, or “Dash D” and “KinDah,” respectively, “Deh Yah” was an eye opener to the sounds and influences the new generation brings to the table.
“We wanted to create our own space, not just for ourselves but also for our fellow up-and-coming visual and recording artists. We believe it’s crucial that people hear and see the next generation of creatives. If no one gives us the opportunity, we create it,” Friday Night Cru told CARIBVOXX. Not only an expression of music, “Deh Yah” had visual art on display, a collision of art forms. Some of the visual artists include ArtbyMaddington, Paige Zombie, Don Dada, Solas Ink, and Konelives, making for a youthful and energetic lineup. The stage saw performances by PRG Kid, King Izem, Courtni, Tessellated, Zac Jone$, and, of course, Friday Night Cru. Artiste Zac Jone$ performed his hit with Jesse Royal, “The Weed Song,” in his set showcasing unique skillsets.
Zac emphasized the importance of his generation’s talents creating a platform for themselves, as they now represent a distinct sound in the industry and cannot easily be paired with other artists or sounds that already exist.
“Unity is massively important between us creatives, as no one man can popularize a new sound alone. We have to bring this sound forward as a unit. That’s why we love working with acts such as Tessellated, Zac Jone$, Royal Blu, and Runkus. We all bring the same sound to the table in different styles,” Friday Night Cru had to say about the unity amongst their peers.
Speaking of Royal Blu and Runkus, who weren’t announced on the lineup, they were introduced on stage as special guests by Friday Night Cru along with Iotosh, Ras-I, and Kalyra. With a vast number of talents gracing the stage and patrons rocking to the infectious sounds, Friday Night Cru considers the staging of “Deh Yah” a success, so much so that they would consider an annual staging of the event.
“We are so grateful for Wray & Nephew and Grant, Henry & Rhooms Legal for the sponsorship, but also to the patrons that took time out to journey to the show. We had a full house and great energy for our first event, and we couldn’t be any happier. They are the reason it was so successful,” CARIBVOXX was informed by the duo.
