Statistics show that the Dutch village of Velp in the eastern Netherlands has a population of less than 20,000, but the diverse music producer ChevoBeatz listened to there as a youth helped broaden his cultural tastes.

Although Jamaican dancehall-reggae gives him the biggest thrill, ChevoBeatz plans to show his full range through his productions in 2025.

“My recent releases definitely show my growth and versatility as a producer. While I’ve always been rooted in dancehall, I’m constantly exploring different genres and blending sounds in unexpected ways. I love pushing boundaries, and that’s what people know me for—my innovative style that fuses traditional elements with fresh, modern twists,” he said.

There is no genre-bending about ‘Time’s Dread’, his latest production with Jamaican deejay FyaVerse. It is straight dancehall and a sign of things to come.

“My latest dancehall project is currently in the making, and it’s going to be a banger for both young and old! I’ve been working on crafting a fresh, high-energy sound that stays true to the roots of dancehall while pushing the genre forward,” ChevoBeatz vowed.

‘Time’s Dread’ continues a working relationship that started six years ago in Kingston with FyaVerse. Their biggest collaboration to date is ‘Shatta Gyal’, released last year.

That track made Billboard Magazine’s Argentina chart and prompted the duo to record a follow-up, with the possibility of an EP or album.

A ChevoBeatz song is not meant to be predictable.

“Every track I create has its own unique vibe, whether it’s hardcore dancehall, a reggae-infused groove, or even influences from Afrobeats, hip-hop, or electronic music. I’m all about keeping the sound evolving while staying true to the energy and essence that make Jamaican music so powerful,” said ChevoBeatz.

Born in Velp to a Surinamese family of East Indian heritage, it was important that he learn the culture of his ancestors. But then came the songs of Peter Tosh, Gregory Isaacs, Morgan Heritage and Vybz Kartel which inspired ChevoBeatz’ decision to get involved in music professionally.

While 2025 is a time for building his brand, he also has his eyes on putting The Netherlands dancehall scene on the map.

“The vibe in The Netherlands is different, but the love for the music and movement is just as real, and the scene continues to evolve in its own way,” said ChevoBeatz, who points to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Tilburg and Eindhoven as the genre’s biggest markets in his country.

(Photo contributed)