Five Questions with ... Ricky Platinum

Undoubtedly, one of the top dancehall disc jockeys on the international scene, this DJ rose to stardom after joining the family business. And although he was born in the United States, his background is deeply rooted in local history and culture. At the dawn of the New Year, Ricky Palmer took to the stage of Sunnation’s Sunrise Day Soiree, held on the lawns of Campion College in St Andrew, delivering a magnetic performance for the suave and glam chic patrons who danced to a myriad of genres under the entertainer’s catalogue. This week, 5 Questions with ... features DJ Ricky Platinum.

1. How did you get the name Ricky Platinum?

I started off on my uncle’s sound system, Platinum Sound. Throughout the business, there were many other platinum sounds, so to be more specific and brand-worthy, I just added the ‘Platinum to my name.

2.How long have you been in the business and how has the music evolved in your eyes?

I’ve been in the music business for about 17 years. I started off as a dancer on the scene and quickly fell in love with playing music. Over the years, I’ve seen a shift from people going out to party to people just coming out to socialise. This is not the case for every party. But I remember going to events earlier in my career and there was more dancing, less social media moments.

3. Would you consider yourself a veteran in the industry and what sets you apart from other DJs?

After being in the business for almost two decades, I consider myself a young king in the industry, as there are veterans who set the way for me to even call myself such.

4. What was it like playing at the recent staging of Sunnation’s Sunrise Day Soirée? And what did you enjoy most about visiting Jamaica?

Sunrise Day Soirée was an event where I knew I could flex my muscles and dig in the musical library and play some good music. The crowd was really receptive to me playing everything from dancehall and lovers rock to souls to gospel, and of course, soca. I know the patrons of Sunnation appreciate good music! The atmosphere called for grown and sexy fun. And I aimed to deliver that energy. I loved the vibe. I always enjoy playing that event immensely. I really enjoy the love and energy I get when I’m in Jamaica, whether I am playing at an event or on the road.

5. You’re a radio disc jockey, you play on the party scene and you’re an events promoter, how do you juggle them all?

Well, when you love what you do, these things are just a walk in the park. I love music so much so playing on the radio is just me exercising. I love to play music and create memories that people will never forget. DJ-ing all over the world is just a dream manifested at a young age by my father’s words. As a DJ who experiences many events of all sorts, I managed to use the knowledge I gained to curate my own experience in the perfect way. I would learn from others’ mistakes and capitalise on executing my own events.

BRAWTA

Why is it important for you to share dancehall music with the world and what are the top-five songs currently trending on your playlist?

My family is from Clarendon, Jamaica. Growing up, listening to reggae and dancehall was the norm. I believe it’s my duty to spread the music to help in any way, form or fashion to represent Jamaica the best way I can! The top-five songs trending on my playlist are WYFL by Skippa; Siqq by Armanii; Live a Little by D’Yani; God is the Greatest by Vybz Kartel; and Whites by Masicka.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com