#BajanVibes – Living the dream . . . Barri G on road to success

Local rapper Jabarri Barri G Francis loves every element of being an entertainer. Each stage of the process brings him distinct pleasure, he told Bajan Vibes.

“It’s a beautiful thing performing on stage, feeling the energy from the crowd is overwhelming and is almost like a never-ending high.”

Since his debut in 2016, music has had a profound impact on him.

“My involvement in music has played and is still playing a positive role in my life. It keeps me sharp in mind, it keeps me occupied, it keeps me out of trouble. It helps me express myself in ways I wouldn’t on a normal day.”

The artiste is well aware that the impact of pursuing this career extends beyond him. “It also inspires those who respect or look up to what I’m doing to even push and go in other directions of positivity, coming from certain environments and circumstances.”

In fact, he encourages other artistes to follow a similar path. “My advice to the next generation or to whoever wants to go in a direction of their passion would be to believe in yourself, have a good team of people who have your best interest at heart and try your best to learn how the business of whatever it is you’re pursuing works.”

Barri G has been living his dream. The artiste has been building a reputation of being among the top rappers on the local scene. He was among the list of nominees for Hip Hop Artiste of the Year and Hip-Hop Song of the Year at the Gine on People’s Choice Awards held earlier this year. Just to be among the front runners in the local scene is an accomplishment that he does not take lightly.

A love for music has always coursed through his veins and his entry to the field was just a natural progression. “I’ve always had a passion and love for music from a child, it was always in my household, all genres.”

The performer fondly recalls his early days starting out at Dbase Studios, which is owned by a friend of his. Since then he teamed up with his current label Dynasty Productions which is run by Burtrum Barker and Janere Klass.

Barri G’s music gives an account of his reality and prophesises the path that he is destined to take. His catalogue includes releases like You Know, Keep Pushing and Loco-Motive which was released earlier this year.

“I would describe my music as a representation of a series of life events, my life events, the people around me, things I learned, things I saw, things I experienced from myself and others and knowledge!”

The poignant tale he weaves with his works includes lessons of struggle, hustle, relations, inspiration, truth and honesty.

His skill is not restricted to the smooth delivery of powerful lyrics; he is also a songwriter. “I write all my music. My inspiration is drawn from life itself; life is basically the foundation of my music and inspiration.”

The performer strives to maintain a level of authenticity through his message. He has a firm focus on being truthful and relatable and he believes that is what sets his music apart.

“The fact that I’m from Barbados and my skill set (the way I rap) is what is unique. Most artistes in my genre follow the attention-seeking route or gimmick route for overnight success. I’m sticking to the essence of my genre, so that will automatically make me standout.”

The artiste and his team have formulated a plan which includes satisfying his fans with a steady stream of music.  This will include some collaborations with other local artistes. He is receptive to working with people that share his vision. “Music is one of the many things that unites or brings people together. I’m about unity, so that alone is enough for me, in terms of why I chose to work with someone.”

The production of some music videos is also on the cards. “I’m also working on a project called YGM which stands for You’re Gonna Make it. So, just stay tuned Bim,” he added, with a mischievous grin.

Of the tracks from his growing catalogue, the one that Barri G holds dear is the unreleased Heartswell. He shared, “It’s my favourite because of how true and uplifting it is to me and my team’s journey (Dynasty Productions).”

Barri G has appeared across the island. His performance spots include Braddies Bar, The Cove, Hilton Hotel, Reddafire, Temple yard and McBride’s, to name a few.

When not working on his music, the artiste enjoys watching a good game of football. The self-employed entrepreneur has aspirations of being immersed in business on a larger scale. However, he wants to add an altruistic slant.

“My interest outside of music is to be a successful investor, businessman and a provider of opportunity for my people. I love to be able or in a position to help others and want to be able to facilitate that success.”

Even though his musical journey has not always been smooth, he uses the stumbling blocks as a catalyst for development. “Challenges will always exist and play a part in music, but I keep a positive mindset to overcome it. I see challenges as a way to grow, especially as a man,” Barri G said.

Whatever path his life takes, success is a must. (STT)