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‘Psalmist’ on point . . . Jamel makes music with a message

by Barbados Today
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Music means different things to different people. For some, it’s just a welcomed reprieve to get away from the pressures of everyday life, but for Jamel Psalmist Newton it is all about delivering a powerful, inspirational message.

Psalmist started performing from as early as childhood as a student of St Bartholomew’s Primary School.

However, it was in the years following his graduation from that institution that he decided to take his music to another level. With his strong sense of spirituality at the root and tinged with his personal experiences, he set out to create music with a difference.

Notwithstanding his dismal performance in music at school, Psalmist has still embraced varying elements of the discipline. He is adept at playing both the guitar and the drums.

The multi-talented entertainer is also a skilled producer and writer, penning 95 per cent of the material that he performs. He has invested much time and energy in researching topics, planning chords, melodies and reading news to bolster the quality of his music and lyrics.

His performance name, which has a commanding air of reverence to it, was not of his own choosing. “My leaders started calling me Psalmist. Then, I did not know what it meant, but I embraced it more when I learned it is one who receives revelations, either in words or mostly as a song, at night or any other odd time that God gave them, which they then put into music.”

Any opportunity to deliver his message is readily accepted and when the vocalist teams up with the band Pure Vybez, that is exactly what his audience enjoys. “My best memories are always with my band Pure Vybez. When I am with them, our goal is common and I feel free and alive to minister music to any amount of people.”

He fondly recalled last year’s Gospelfest. “It was special because some of my team are new to the stage and the excitement it brought them made me happy too.”

Despite having more than a decade of experience, he still gets butterflies before a performance. “Sometimes I still do get nervous. One would think after such a long history it would get old, but nerves come, and they go. I usually stay focused on the purpose I am there, and that people paid to hear me, not my nerves,” he added laughingly.

“So many people struggle daily and sometimes people come out just to hear something that can help a decision they are facing. I always want to be a part of the solution, not the problem.”

Admittedly, collaborations with other artistes have not been at the forefront of Newton’s mind. However, he is willing to partner with someone with extensive influence to ensure that his message can be delivered to a global market.

Although being a performer plays an integral role in his life, the journey has not been without its challenges. “The music I have produced and performed has made headway locally and internationally; at times, it has both impacted me personally, negatively and positively.”

He added: “Music makes me happy most days. Some days I question why I continue to do something that makes little money.”

However, in those moments when he feels disillusioned, there is often a proverbial ‘light at the end of the tunnel’. “When others testify of what my music did for them, to me, it was all worth it,” he added.

Even though the tangible rewards often do not match the amount of time and effort devoted to creating quality music, Psalmist’s ultimate reward is knowing that he has continuously touched the lives of others in a positive way.

“For those who want to be an entertainer, I would say it’s a beautiful experience but also a humbling responsibility. To hold a mic and be able to pour into others is a gift, so make sure you leave something worthwhile behind when you come off that stage,” he strongly advised. (STT)

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