5 months ago
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Kevin Downswell isn’t just a contemporary gospel singer, he’s a movement. In a world often consumed by fleeting trends, Downswell is consistently using his platform to inspire and uplift. Through his label, Downswell Records, the 2024 JaRIA Gospel Artiste of the Year has shown remarkable versatility, dropping back-to-back albums that solidified his position as a leader in the genre. Known for his soul-stirring vocals, he is ready again to show local and international audiences how he pushes the boundaries of gospel music – proving that faith-filled messages can resonate across genres and borders. With his genre-bending 2024 hit single My Year, a reggae-pop anthem soaked in positivity, Downswell has delivered a message that transcends the pews and he is returning with an acoustic version for the new year. In this week’s Five Questions with … he reminds persons that no matter the “downs” the way to go from there is up, and shares plans for 2025, as well as a few of life hacks to make things easier at home.
1. W hat inspired you to do an acoustic version of My Year?
Acoustic versions tend to be very relaxing or more laidback compared to the original. People loved the original [reggae-pop up-tempo] version but I think the acoustic vibe helps to tap into a broader audience – one that may have a taste for music that is more relaxing ... and the response has been amazing on social media. Someone commented on my Instagram page that the acoustic version brought out the “colourfulness and beauty” of the music, helping them to focus on the music arrangement more and connect more deeply with the message.
2. Do you believe Jamaican artistes – gospel, reggae and dancehall – could benefit from doing acoustic versions of their tracks?
Definitely. I believe we all can benefit. Breaking songs down into more relaxed, acoustic versions opens up new opportunities for broader audiences. Offering acoustic versions … is a way of not trying to force people into liking or listening to one genre but a means of giving listeners options, and options are always a plus.
3. How do you plan to conquer in 2025?
The year 2025 is shaping up to be big year for us. We have been working hard in the studio throughout 2024, so we have a number of songs ready to drop. We are also finalising a deal with an international management company, which is expected to provide a significant boost globally. There’s also a strong possibility of releasing an EP – it’s more of a “yes” than a “no” at this point.
4. You utilise social media – particularly Instagram – to reach your audience. How do you use social media responsibly, and what advice would you give to colleagues and influencers about using these platforms?
Social media is really about connecting with people. It is actually people behind it and people who utilise it, [so] we must remind ourselves each time we are posting that we are communicating with somebody. Every time I post, I remind myself that I’m communication with real human beings ... people who are waging battles and with issues of their own. So, if I don’t have anything meaningful to say, I simply don’t post. My focus is always on sharing something inspiring and uplifting. My advice to others is to treat your audience with respect and empathy.
5. What were some of your most enriching experiences in 2024?
The year was a blessing in so many ways. Recording in the studio brought out some stuff from inside of me that helped me to tap into a new place I have never been. On top of that, I travelled to places I never been before; it was beautiful to tap into new territories, to see new faces and experience different cultures and connect with people I’d never met before. It was a year of magic and expansion and I feel like it was the perfect springboard for what’s to come in 2025.
BRAWTA: What are some life hacks you use at home to simplify tasks?
Oh, I love this question! This is interesting … here are a few of my favourites that help me to stay organised and save time.
Attach Velcro strips to all your remote controls and stick them to the side of the coffee table or entertainment centre. This way you can attach them so you don’t lose them.
Tie a tension rod under the kitchen sink and hang spray bottles to free up space and keep them easily accessible.
Install a magnetic strip in the bathroom to hold all metal items like tweezers, so they are easy to find.
English (US) ·