From Pain to Praise: Wingy Danejah

Wingy Danejah, a Jamaican gospel artist who lives in South Florida, bases his music on that verse. It is an approach that can be heard on ‘Agape Love’, his latest album, which was released in July.

The eclectic collection bears the seal of his Danejah Boy Records, and is produced by Kent Murphy.

It is also the most personal of Wingy Danejah’s eight albums.

“The most satisfying part of creating ‘Agape Love’ was being able to turn some of the most difficult moments of my life into music that can bring hope and healing to others,” he said. “This album is very personal. It reflects my pain, my growth, my faith, and my relationship with God. Knowing that someone may hear these songs and realise they’re not alone is the greatest reward.”

One of those songs, ‘Letter From A Broken Heart’, recalls an intimate relationship that soured. Along with ‘What The World Needs’, ‘Si Mi Yah’, ‘Down’ and ‘God’s Plan’, other tracks from ‘Agape Love’, it was released prior to July.

The songs on the album showcase Wingy Danejah’s love of reggae, dancehall and hip hop. Those were the sounds he listened to as a teenager in Portmore, a bustling housing development on the outskirts of Kingston, Jamaica’s capital.

That working-class area has a thriving sound system culture and produced acts like Frisco Kid, Sanchez and Vybz Kartel.

After becoming a Christian over 25 years ago, Wingy Danejah maintained his admiration for non-traditional gospel beats as well as dancehall and pop artistes. As ‘Agape Love’s executive producer, he admits finding a market for his brand of inspirational music can be tough, but says social media has made it easier to reach a diverse audience.

“We’re living in a different era where streaming platforms, social media, and independent outlets have created opportunities that didn’t exist before. While radio is still valuable, artistes today have more ways than ever to reach people directly,” Wingy Danejah noted. “My focus has always been to stay true to the message God has given me, and I believe that when the music is genuine, the right doors will open at the right time.”

(Photo contributed)