KipRich believes Jamaica is lacking much Christmas cheer

Singjay KipRich believes that the Christmas spirit of recent years feels subdued when compared to the '90s and early 2000s.

"You used to hear people saying that they are in the Christmas fever, or in the Christmas spirit, from as early as October. You used to hear Christmas carols on every radio station. Nowadays you don't hear that happening," the singjay compared.

He recalled the streets of Waterhouse, St Andrew, where he grew up, would be lively with street parties and free goodies for the people.

Coming from a family of small business owners, KipRich recalled that Christmas was more about ensuring that the shop was never out of stock. He said he learnt about business from a tender age, and one Christmas he struck out on his own.

"When I got toys I sold them, and depends on how fast I sold them, I would restock and sell throughout the season. So it was business for me when it comes on to that tender age, because it was a business home," he said.

However, he still looked forward to spending time with family and friends whom he had not seen in a long while, homes being decorated, and the general happiness of the time.

"We looked forward to a lot of excitement, Christmas parties and thing. There's always this one house that was properly decked out with Christmas lights and you just wanted to see what it's going to be like for that year," he said, adding "Since I became an adult and in the music business, I always try to give back to people in the community."

He said that his Christmas wish is to see sound systems stringing up on every corner, playing music for the season.

"[I want to see] people enjoying themselves, food cooking, outdoor cooking happening, family coming together and enjoying each other's company," he said. "And the reason for this is, this is the only way we can bring back Jamaica to what it was in terms of cutting down on crime and to unite the people. I think that can make a difference, so that is my wish."

However, he understands that life has become very difficult for many people in Jamaica. Moreover, for him Christmas is about making his children happy, as he is delighted when they are. The singjay plans to link up with some close friends and family, but insists that the gathering will be small.

"Not all the family members can come over again, because you have to limit [the] amount of people gathering, and the elder family members you can't put them at risk. So the COVID thing change up the vibes, which is sad," he said.

KipRich says he will deliver a promised EP/album in 2022. The artiste has also been working on a number of music videos, which will be released next year.