Dancehall originated in the late 70’s giving birth to a whole new era of music. With the fast pace rhythms incorporating digital sound with an infusion of hip-hop, dancehall is an urban and contemporary take on the classic reggae sounds that’s taken off in the lands of Jamaica and the overall Caribbean itself. Incorporating the style of pop and hip-hop with a fusion of island rhythm is what makes this genre of music unique drawing in listeners from all over internationally. It wasn’t until the early 2000’s though when we finally saw dancehall music go mainstream with the popularity of artists such as Sean Paul, Elephant Man, Beenie Man and even Rihanna. As of lately though dancehall has taken another infusion, incorporating more rap into its genre, it even seems as though the American hip-hop influence has inspired a lot of new dancehall artists as well. Up and coming dancehall artist Alkaline is one of the most talked about and hottest artists in the dancehall business today. With his eccentric style, long hair and rock star mentality, Alkaline is definitely making a name for himself in the music business. So much so that his fan base reaches internationally from his homeland of Jamaica to the U.S. and Europe. His personal style is also just as talked about as his music. With an urban edgy twist of rock star appeal incorporated with dope streetwear finds, Alkaline’s style is very reminiscent of a Young Thug or Rich Homie Quan, bending the rules as well as taking chances on urban fashion. Incorporating rock star appeal with the island feel tying it all together with his masculinity and swag. Alkaline is definitely a trendsetter in his own right no doubt. As of recently trolling on different social media platforms there has been talk of a new EP dropping soon. In an exclusive interview with the dancehall king himself he clarifies, “Yeah I’m focusing on my new album it started off as an EP but decided to just do a whole new album, got new sounds coming soon you know a different side to the dark rhymes”.  Making his first appearance in the U.S. last year touring in cities like D.C. and Atlanta reggae/dancehall fans alike came out in numbers to support the young rock star’s current Vendetta movement. Set to tour this year as well Alkaline expresses his excitement, “I’m so excited about touring this year you know, I got a lot of shows booked, the New Year is upon us”. Alkaline is no doubt a stranger to bad boy behavior but he claims it’s just a part of his music and what he wants his fans to get from his sounds, “My music it’s just life you know, a lot of thing you’ll have to go through to really understand where I’m coming from, but if you are living you should be able to relate you know. It’s just art you know whatever you want it to be”. With the New Year here and thriving Alkaline is definitely making moves and working hard to put out a new sound for all the fans. Be sure to stay on the lookout for this young and hungry artist who is sure to make even bigger waves mainstream wise in music as the year progresses. Alkaline is a sure star on the rise, and humble too might I add with dope style. Check out Alkalinemusic.com for updates on his latest album dropping soon. Follow him as well if you’re not already on his Instagram, Twitter and Facebook too for more updates on everything Alkaline. – EffYeahMark

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