Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

ZJ Ice - Contributed

One of the 'coolest' zip jocks and selectors in the business, Jason Carr aka 'ZJ Ice', continues to make big strides in the business.

Contrary to his name, ZJ Ice can heat up any session with his down-to-earth attitude and a drive to set himself apart from the pack.

With an interest in production, Ice joined the Mellow Canary sound in 1998 before becoming a long-standing member of the talented Coppershot family. Trained to play the piano and a little guitar, Ice has learnt the business well over the years.

As a member of Coppershot, he has travelled to places like the United States, The Bahamas and St. Lucia, and has played at many major events across the island.

Fondly known as 'Fridgy' in the Coppershot camp, Ice says being around fellow lovers of music is the best part of being in the sound.

While Ice has gained fame in the group, most of Jamaica has become familiar with the DJ through his time on ZIP FM. When the station started in 2002, Ice answered an advertisement to audition for the station, and the rest is history.

His own flavour

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6 to 10 p.m., Ice can be heard bringing his own flavour to the airwaves. Six years later, Ice claims to have learnt much and has even altered his style. "My style has changed a whole heap. The music changes so you have to change with the music, what you used to do you can't do now" he said.

Ice describes his style as, "more party oriented. I try to play everything different, I don't try to stick to the same ole, same ole. Every now and again you know you play a song for a while so you might change it up, or I might try not to play some songs back to back."

Outside of selecting, Ice has ventured into the field of production having produced songs such as Backshot Time by Charly Blacks, as well as songs for Mr Vegas and Ninja Kidd. He is currently working on some rhythms as well as a track for Beenie Man.

Ice says he looks up to producers like Donovan Germaine, Dave and Tony Kelly, as well as King Jammys.

For Ice, being around the turntables and seeing people enjoying his musical selections is an unforgettable experience. However, he says in the future, he hopes to be in the studio doing more producing.