Topnotch record producer Davion Campbell of Blak Yaad Production has not only a rich memory but also a heart of gold.

Talk to him about music and you may be surprised how much he knows. And he does this teasingly as if he doesn’t have to feel for words.

It is so hard not to get hooked on his conversation because he is sharp in diction and a motivational speaker.

The other day I called him because of his involvement in the newly released ‘Just for Peace’ album.

Apart from congratulating Quada, Valiant, and Chi Ching Ching for participating in the novel Peace album, he is also imploring fellow record producers to steer other dancehall artistes to join any form of peace initiative.

According to Campbell, who has worked with veterans like Vybz Kartel, Mr. Vegas, Popcaan, and Lisa Hyper, “It is so refreshing and an honour to be associated with ‘Just for Peace’. It is more than giving back to society; let’s give peace a chance.”

“It’s also a good feeling producing positive songs, especially at a time when there is so much senseless killing and other acts of violence.”

“Quada’s ‘Plead My Cause’ and Valiant’s ‘Young N Ah Dweet’ feat. Chi Ching Ching have inspiring lyrics for this and future generation of artistes.”

“My grandmother brought me up with Christian principles such as being kind and forgiving and seeing God as the ultimate Creator of all things. And knowing that God exists, has allowed me to call on Him when no one else can help.”

Quada’s ‘Plead My Cause’, are lines from Psalms 31, which in part reads: Plead My Cause O Lord with those who strive with me. Fight against those who fight against me. Take hold of the shield and buckler and stand up for my help. Also, draw out the spear and stop those who pursue me…

Campbell opined “I believe Quada, realizing that he could not alone fight the battle decided to seek God.”

“Let’s not forget we were born in sin and shaped in inequity and must help and forgive others who have found themselves on the wrong side of the lane. Also, let us not judge and persecute others.”

As for Valiant’s ‘Young N Ah Dweet’, “this, a motivational song, is helping one to break through adversity. Again, we need to understand that this world promises no one a bungle of happiness, so we have to prepare for trials and tribulations. And, to overcome, we need to have the perseverance to conquer these adversities which exist in our relationship, families, communities schools, and workplace.”

Campbell, a self-proclaimed humanitarian was born in the Swift River district of Portland. He was raised by his grandmother, Ivy-May Moore, who taught him Christian principles which he imparted.

“I held the 4-H president position at Waterford Primary.” This, he feels, has molded his life into giving back and helping others to become positive role models.

He is looking forward to a major project which is an album. “I along with reggae artiste Yaadcore will produce a dancehall/Afrobeat style riddim, which will bring both genres of music closer to capture the international market.”

(Photos contributed)