Denyque
Jedani
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Davina Henry, Staff ReporterJamaica is known worldwide for the indomitable spirit of its people and the rich, diverse talent found therein. Many enter the entertainment industry aspiring to achieve the lofty, sometimes surreal, fame of musical giants.
However, being an up-and-comer is costly. Consider the costs of studio time, promotional material, image maintenance and others and you can get an idea of the hellish fiscal situation newbies can face.
Add this to the fact that talented artistes are not that hard to find, thanks to popular talent shows.
Even impromptu stage opportunities at events prove there is no dearth of options for a voice and a few slick lyrics.
Today, more and more people in the entertainment industry are picking up other activities to keep busy and make money.
According to artiste Denyque, aside from being a recording artiste, she has also branched out into fashion designing.
"I have a swimsuit line coming out in June called WetSwim. I also dabble in other business ventures, including interior designing," she told The Sunday Gleaner.
She added that though finding an alternative source of income may not be for everybody, it has worked in her favour.
"I have the heart of a hustler, I don't think there is one way to make money. I have many things to offer, so I don't limit myself. As an artiste it takes 100 per cent out of you. To start out in this industry, you have to be dedicated and committed. But there is nothing wrong with branching out," she said.
Up-and-coming artiste Jedani agreed with Denyque. He confirmed to The Sunday Gleaner that because of the tough economic times, having a back-up plan is key.
MULTITALENTED SCHOLAR
"I studied computer graphics at Edna Manley [College of the Visual and Performing Arts] so I do a bit of that on the side. I also do a bit of 'behind the scenes' work in music videos," Jedani said.
He admitted that because of his love and passion for music, he took two years off school to pursue this path but is hoping to return in September to complete his degree.
"It takes money to get a break in the industry. It's tough. Some artistes only rise to fame because of investors who are able to invest in their craft. The way music set up now, you haffi definitely have something to fall back on. I didn't expect the industry to be this challenging. Money is not immediate when you're in the industry, it's very challenging. But if you keep focused and work on your craft, you can succeed," he said.
He is known as Richie Ras to most Jamaicans, but only a few are aware that Richard Spence is also the maintenance administrator at Mothers Jamaica.
According to Spence, because of the instability of the industry, having a back-up career plan just makes sense.
"It's additional income. The industry is very fickle at times, especially now when it's the slow season. In times like this, a day job just makes more sense. A back-up plan is important. If persons can dedicate a four to five years to a corporate job, that would give them a great foundation so that if things don't wok out, they can always rely on that," Richie Ras said.