Being a standout DJ in a very competitive dancehall space is a skill by itself, which is tested further by being the touring DJ for one of the genre’s hottest international names.
Skillibeng’s DJ Chadwayne “Chaddy G” Griffiths shares insight on his journey in music.
Chaddy G, who has been involved in music for over 17 years, shared that what was once a hobby initially became a professional pursuit after claiming the runner-up spot in an “All Island School tour DJ competition” during his time at the University of Technology.
“November of 2010 is when I took it [seriously]. I joined a DJ competition here in Kingston when I moved to Kingston,” the Westmoreland native said. “It was a college thing, so it was DJs from all over Jamaica competing against each other, and I came second, that’s when I decided to take it serious[ly].”
Despite his aptitude within Dancehall and hip-hop, Chaddy has also played at some of the biggest Soca fetes in addition to spinning at major dancehall parties
“I Played at Strickly 2k, Illuminate last year, I’ve played Jamaica Carnival twice before, and I’m playing on April 7. I’ve also played at I Love Soca,” he added.
Describe your style of Deejaying.
“I’m more urban. My favorite genre is hip-hop. I try to incorporate it[ hip-hop] into my sets as much as possible. I can play anything, so I try to mix up. I don’t try to stick to one genre, I try to give a nice little diverse set every time I play.“
How did the Skillibeng link happen?
He noted that the opportunity to work with “Skilli” was a divine set-up, being around the right person at the right time, crediting his manager, who joined Skillibeng’s team as his road manager, which opened the door for that situation based on his already solid performance at events.
Things you’ve learned being around Skillibeng?
“Consistency is key. keep honing your craft no matter what. I already knew that but being around him and seeing how seriously he takes his craft reminded me of how we started.” Also, “Stay Hungry and don’t let anything take your mind off the goal at hand so stay focused, probably more focused.”
Ranked: Your top five Skillibeng tracks?
“My Favourite one is still “Mr Universe“, then “Torpedo“, “Top Ranking“ “She Love Badman“ and Crocodile Teeth.” [Of course], he quipped.
Skillibeng songs, being such versatile releases, suggest three epic mixes using his songs with other tracks.
“She Love Bad Man can be mixed with “Gyal Thief [by 450], Brick Pon Brick Pon can go with Bitcoin [Teejay] “Crocodile Teeth” can go with so much….Gvnman Shift[by Skeng] or Real Badman by Kartel,“ He shared.
Countries you’ve been to and celebrities you’ve met on tour?
Drake, Jeremih, and Byron Messia are among the international celebrities he’s met while on tour with the “Eastside” top man.
