Music industry lauded for Melissa response

Musical experts Professor Donna Hope and Clyde McKenzie say they are not surprised at the outpouring of support from industry players following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, as most artistes are from humble beginnings, which embedded a strong sense of community in them.

"I'm very happy and elated to see artistes coming out and while some of them are upfront on the social spaces, many are behind the scenes contributing," Hope told THE STAR. She also highlighted that local and international sports persons are out also making their contributions as a sense of "unity and sportsmanship".

"People all over are just giving to Jamaica because this is where they get their energy from. People love Jamaica and love our music so I'm very proud of them," Hope said.

McKenzie said the artistes "know what time it is" as they can personally relate to these kind of struggles.

"It's heart-warming, and apart from the artistes and sportsmen themselves getting involved directly, the kinda attraction they have internationally gives Jamaica the kind of visibility, and has endeared the country to so many people," said McKenzie.

He added that at times, the artistes are more embedded in the communities than government officials.

"Many of them hailed from impoverished communities so they understand at a granular level what is happening here and that's why most of them are so moved to help. Many are from deep rural areas or inner cities that are marginalised, suh dem know what a clock a strike," he said.

McKenzie noted that artistes postponing and pausing the promotions around their projects and shows to focus on Jamaica now, "is a good look".

"To whom much is given, much is required and that's a good example because they are being leaders in their own right, which is commendable. We salute all the artistes, their managers and handlers who have risen to the occasion and ensure that their compatriots are comfortable in a crisis like this," he opined.

Individuals such as Masicka, Romeich, D'Angel, Sean Paul and Beenie Man have been galvanising their efforts and contributing to residents who've been badly affected by Melissa.

However, Hope cautioned artistes and all those giving "not to bleed while you give", but to also protect their mental and emotional states.

"It's very difficult to go in the devastated areas and come back out the same person," she said, also urging artistes to use the opportunity to produce more "inspirational songs".

"I want to hear some songs coming out of dancehall that's not just gospel-sounding type, but hardcore dancehall. How are we reflecting our music, our art and this condition? In 1988, Lloyd Lovindeer did Wild Gilbert which was more comical. But this is 2025, a different era. We need to hear what our artistes are reflecting on when struck with something like this. We have to memorialise this timeline in our art and our music. It's very important because we need something to keep our mind moving," said Hope.

She said her 'Hurricane Melissa song' was Popcaan's Firm and Strong.

"This song has kept me throughout some of the most difficult periods in my life and was also my go-to song. It has been a rock and steel for people like me; it's a powerful song. Even Mavado's I'm On The Rock; we need some songs like that to hold on to because we're not going back to normal for a long time."

McKenzie said he was okay with waiting on the entertainers to "do their thing at their own pace".

"I'm sure there will be that kind of music output that will come in time. Right now, what we really need is to ensure that people are fed, housed and clothed immediately and then we can rehabilitate afterwards. But right now, we're tryna save lives," he said, adding that it's difficult for anyone to say anything that's comforting enough than to help.

"Now is really a time for action, not a bag a mouth," he said.