Joel Browne: Guyanese Pastor’s Son Becomes Top Dancehall Producer

Written by: Jamel Grahame

It was more than a little farfetched the possibility of a famed pastor’s son producing for one of the most provocative and controversial performing dancehall artiste today. This was the sentiments echoed by Joel Browne, who practices his craft as a producer under the name Joey2Kool Productions. He described with animation his total amazement when he initially saw what appeared to be the legendary recording artiste Dexta Daps trying to contact him. Browne explained that the moment was so shocking that he initially questioned the realism of the situation and had not responded until he did some research. According to the young musician the moment has resulted in him receiving much media and public attention.

Joel Browne is, however, no stranger to popularity. Born to one of Guyana’s most recognized and internationally acclaimed Christian leaders Pastor Emanuel Browne who is the Head Pastor of the famed New Life Ministry’s church. Browne credits his famed father’s unwavering encouragement and support for the genesis and sustenance of his music career. He explained that growing up in the church gave him access to a variety of musical instruments where he recognized and harnessed his musical talents. He also acknowledged Guyanese lyricist Kwasi Ace as one of his earlier collaborations and someone he described as an avid believer in his talent.

Browne began his music career singing and producing music with his sister Angelina Browne and became popular for the successful patriotic duet entitled “this is my Home Guyana”. The duet” dominated the radio waves at the time of its release. He has since gone on to produce for many of Guyana’s biggest music acts. The musician’s journey was not a paved road, however, Browne detailed the many challenges he faced early in his career. He recalled the many naysayers encountered and how his struggles with negative comments coincided with his journey to find his unique sound. According to Browne in a bid for recognition, he would listen to artiste and try to create sounds tailored to them. He would eventually settle on creating the type of music he would personally enjoy.

 

When asked to describe the Joey2Kool production sound, the producer explained that his sound relies heavily on the use of live instruments and the creation of authentic acoustics which he believes played a critical role in his work being recognized by Dexta Daps. Dexta Daps is also known for bringing a unique sound to Dancehall music. His brand consists of live instruments, acoustics, and a blending of musical genres. Browne explained that as an avid “Church boy” Dexta Daps was understandably not on his go-to list. He, however, after being contacted by the artiste’s management team researched the artiste and got an understanding of his sound. Though the tracks produced for the album were not tailored to the artiste, the compatibility is impossible to ignore. Browne’s work on Dexta Daps album ‘Vent’ spans three tracks and features collabs with acclaimed reggae performing artistes Beenie Man, Tarrus Riley, and Spice.

1. Dexta-Daps-ft-Tarrus-Riley-Undefeated Dexta-Daps-ft-Tarrus 0:45
2. Dexta-Daps-ft.-Beenie-Man-Obviously Dexta Daps- Obviously (Clean) VENT 0:45

The young producer’s life is quite the balancing act.  In addition to music, he also doubles as a professional pilot, a husband, and a father and remains an active member of his father’s ministry. Joel Browne has big dreams for the future of his career. He has dreams of further regional and even international collaborations and even has sights on winning a Grammy award for his country.

Joel Browne closed by encouraging humility amongst persons aspiring to this profession, a trait he said was instilled in him by his father. He further posited that doing it for the “love” and not “accolades” is also critical to ensuring success in the arena. According to Browne, he has much to be grateful for including the opportunity to work and interact with superstars such as Dexta Daps who he described as one of the coolest persons he has ever met. He further regarded, as a high point, a thrilling story of the famed artiste singing Happy Birthday to his wife. He acknowledged his family, friends, and many supporters as invaluable to his life and career

Caribbean Entertainment Hub wishes to congratulate the young producer and wish him continued success with future initiatives.

 

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