Mr Hamarich abandons dancehall for gospel

Recording artiste David Isaiah Crawford, who is known by the stage name Mr Hamarich, said he is destined to spread the gospel.

"God gave me the knowledge to preach goodness, mercy, and love," the artiste, who said his name was inspired by his Rastafarian roots, told Gospel Spotlight. He said 'Hamaric' comes from the Aramaic language and 'rich' stuck with him from his song, entitled Rich Me Get Rich.

Born in Rocky Point, Clarendon, where he started his music journey at the age of 12, Mr Hamarich said initially he was inspired by dancehall music because of his father who was a party promoter. The legendary Cocoa Tea is also from the community, and was also a source of inspiration for his music. "I used to enjoy singing some of his tunes dem," he said, adding that he also admired Capleton.

The 42-year-old said one of his most memorable moments was his first performance with Everton Blender, who inspired him to pursue singing. Later Ce'Cile's talent show in 2003, in which he said he was a runner-up, nurtured his competitive spirit and strengthened his creativity. He later transitioned to writing gospel songs. Interestingly, the Rastafarian culture instilled by his father also influenced his transition to gospel music.

"I got the inspiration from a long time, I was taught things about Emperor Haile Selassie [I] and he went to church and pray," he shared. Since his transition to Christianity, Mr Hamarich said he has been encouraged to write more songs.

His first gospel song was Keep Cool Lucifer, and just last month he released a new single titled Fret. It addresses the opinions that people in society have regarding vaccination and potential mortality, and Mr Hamarich hopes it will inspire change in people to abide by the safety protocols. "So far it has given people the reassurance not to be driven by fear especially during this vulnerable time," he said.

As he looks towards the future, Mr Hamarich hopes to build a studio. Additionally, he is eyeing growth in his new musical journey. COVID-19 has paused his progress, but he hopes as soon as the virus departs, he can expand his career into international regions.

Mr Hamarich said that he hopes his supporters will listen to his songs and turn to God. "Once there is life, there is hope and God gives us life. I want the people dem to choose God and stop fret on vanity and weh dem lost already. Let us fret about the coming of God because he is coming soon," he said.