Openly gay dancehall artist Demaro is ready to risk the adversity asscociated with Jamaica’s stance on homosexuality with the debut of the music video for his lead single, “Mi Readi.” Directed by Tony Vallés and featuring Caribbean HIV activist and drag performer Jahlove Serrano, the visual is Demaro’s first effort to mobilize his country’s marginalized LGBTQ community.“Mi Readi” is the first single and visual from Demaro’s EP “Good Vibes Only” that will rollout in the spring and be released in June 2020 during Pride month.
You just released the music video for your first single, “Mi Readi”. What was the inspiration behind the visuals?
The inspiration behind the video was doing laundry on a hot summer day in Brooklyn that turns into a turn up and kickback with some friends. The song “Mi Readi” was really born out of therapy. There was a time in my life when I had lost everything and I remember being in therapy, and finally one day it just clicked. I just remember feeling like I could take back my life and telling my therapist, “mi readi.” I started writing and the lyrics just flowed. Shooting the video was really a full-circle moment for me. When I was homeless, I lived right across from that laundromat and now I’ve shot my music video there.
Since moving to New York you performed alongside Island Records signee Kidd Kenn at his official NYC showcase. What was that experience like?
That was a really great experience and such a vibe! It’s actually one of my favorite performances I’ve had in New York. I got to see different talents in different genres of music. Our community was representing and it’s always great to see that support. I love performing and getting to share my music and connect with everyone in the audience. I’m excited to be on stage more.
Growing up in Jamaica, what was your experience in dealing with homophobic culture & attitudes in your own community?
Honestly, you had to be on the “down low.” It’s tough out there…surviving as a gay man. At least, back in my time living there. You don’t have rights as a gay man in Jamaica. The police don’t even protect us. It wasn’t the best situation for me so I had to get up and leave. There’s been situations where I was outed at a job and ended up quitting and I’ve actually been attacked. Fortunately, I was able to get away before it got bad, but I still deal with the trauma from it. Therapy has really helped.
Given that there is a documented history of homophobia within Dancehall, how did you come to see yourself as wanting to participate in & create music in that genre?
Dancehall is in my blood, ya’ know? I spent most of my time in Jamaica. Most of my youth years were spent there. I moved here when I was 22, so up until then, I’ve been listening to dancehall. I was going to parties out there and being a part of the culture. The lyrics in dancehall have definitely been homophobic, but I’m going to change that narrative. That formula is so old, too! I think it’s time these dancehall artists get more creative.
How do you think that Jamaica and other Caribbean cultures/communities will respond to your take on Dancehall?
We’ll have to see how they will take it. It can be tough to break barriers based on the mindset of the Caribbean. I hope to be a voice to cross that bridge, but I’m all about unity and bringing people together. I’m here to participate!
Who are some of your Reggae & Dancehall inspirations and how have they influenced your music?
Bob Marley. He was all about unity and rising up…equal rights. His music really speaks to me. Luciano; a really great singer. Jimmy Cliff! Then you have your dancehall…your Beanie Man, Elephant Man, Shaggy.
How would you define your personal style? My personal style in music is eclectic. Even though I grew up in Jamaica and have dancehall in my blood, I moved here when I was 22 and have always been involved in Hip-Hop culture and R&B. There’s a bit of that in my music also. As well as some soca…a little bit of everything.
Since living in New York City what have been some of your favorite nightlife hangouts? They used to have these place downtown…they don’t have it no more, but it was called Escuelita & Splash. Believe it or not, I love to go to Benny’s Burrito’s for margaritas. You have to try it! The margaritas there are good and affordable. It’s in the village.
Plans for 2020?
Take over the world! I say that humbly. I want the bookings and the tours, ya’ know. Making money…touring overseas. I want to make more fans, make great music, and live my best life.
