At just 22 years of age, Jamal ‘J.Slo’ Slocombe has quickly become one to watch on the Barbadian soca circuit.

Despite his youth, music is nothing new to the talented singer. “I have been performing for as long as I can remember. I started in the church, which I am still actively involved in. However, my first performance on the national stage was at 10 years old at the Spirit of the Nation Show,” he shared.

Jamal Slocombe, like other artistes, draws his musical inspiration and motivation from many sources. “I have huge respect for Red Plastic Bag, John King and Mighty Gabby. I’ve had the pleasure to work with all three of these icons. However, much of my musical influence I have to attribute to Johnny Koimen and Carlyn Leacock who were very instrumental in my development,” Jamal divulged.

Soca has definitely provided a stepping stone for Jamal. In this year’s 2019 Crop Over competitions, he made it his mission to have a great time on stage and provide the energy which soca fans so greatly desire. “I enjoyed this year in particular because I decided to not focus on competition and have fun. I think whilst I did so, the audience felt the same way. I am very grateful with the results of this Crop Over Season.”

Despite his successes, Jamal noted that he has experienced his share of career challenges. A few years ago, he entered the local Junior Monarch competition expectant of a big win. However, this was not to be. “I did not win or place in Junior Monarch the year I entered and it caused much debate across Barbados. I was broken in spirit, but thanks to the support and encouragement from many Barbadians I was able to comeback harder and stronger. The greatest lesson I learned was: fall nine times, get back up ten.”

Through the roller-coaster of the music business, Jamal acknowledges that it is vital for him to remain grounded through the assistance of his team. Like a real granny’s boy, Jamal credits the leading ladies in his life for who he is today. “ I have a really strong team and support system from my mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.” While recognising the many others who help him to realise his dreams, Jamal said, “It takes a team to make the dream work.”

While soca is his love, Jamal Slocombe wants us all to know that he has much more musical  diversity to bring. “I recorded an album in New York just over a year ago which the final touches are being worked on as we speak. However, by October I’d have a new track out; produced by Chris Allman. I think the direction of releasing music without the restriction of any season is important. We are building an industry, and if we are going to hope for our music to penetrate we cannot expect to create music for eight weeks of an entire year.”

A Taste of Jamal Slocombe

1. Alive Jamel Slocombe 0:45

2. Rocker Jamal Slocombe 0:45

3. Just The Two Of Us Jamal Slocombe 0:45

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