Kmetik Nyne shows militant side on new single

US-based Jamaican reggae/dancehall artiste Kmetik Nyne comes out of his comfort zone with his latest single, 'Red'.

The song brings awareness to the violence in Jamaica and across the world. It speaks of current events and shows a more militant side to the otherwise laid-back artiste.

He got his name after reading a mind-blowing book about the Black race.

"I came across a book called Stolen Legacy, where it speaks of Kemet, which means the Black land and black people as the originator of language, religion, mathematics and much more. I became fascinated with Kemet and started to put what I learnt in my music for those who are listening, so I felt it was appropriate to brand myself with the name Kmetik. The number nine has many significance, but most of all it's the number of completion."

As a child, he lived on the western side of Jamaica with his mother, where he attended Barrack Road Primary school in Montego Bay St James.

He was bombarded with music at a tender age, having elder brothers who were musicians, artiste and engineers. They made their little house on the hilltop a meeting ground for the local artistes.

His musical influences are Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Steele Pulse, Sizzla, Bugle and "any music that comes with a conscious message".

Although he is still taking lessons, his instrument of choice is the acoustic guitar.

He continues to build his catalogue, making a name for himself one stage at a time with his energetic performances.