Hailing from Mannings Hill in the Stony Hill region of Jamaica’s St. Andrew parish, Valiant has risen as a prominent voice in the new wave of dancehall – and his upcoming EP is set to solidify his fame, steering him into a distinctly more R&B-oriented direction.
In 2022, Valiant (born Raheem Bowes) made waves with a series of electrifying singles — including “Dunce Cheque,” “Siance,” “Speed Off,” “North Caolina,” and “C.A.L (Cut All Losses)” – that showcased his unique slang (“Kotch e hat a lie”) and his melodic style within trap dancehall. The subsequent year saw him release his 20-track 4:14 mixtape, which he supported by performing throughout the Caribbean and the U.K. Although his rise to fame is relatively recent, the 26-year-old artist has been involved in music for over ten years; he was even part of Popcaan’s Unruly Camp in the past.
After joining Sony Music UK’s newly revived Epic Records in late 2023, Valiant released his A Gift from Me to You EP, paving the way for an even larger presence in 2024 — highlighted by tracks like “Flava,” “Lumbah,” and “Baddiedeh.” Throughout 2024, Valiant earned recognition as best Caribbean music act at the MOBO Awards and male dancehall artist of the year at the Caribbean Music Awards. This year, he aims to retain his title at the upcoming award show, which will announce its winners on August 28 at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, N.Y.
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Set to release on May 23 via Epic/Sony Records UK, Valiant’s anticipated new EP, Prove Them Wrong, aims to do just that. From skeptics and naysayers to those uncertain about the future of dancehall or Valiant’s adaptability, the global star is gearing up to elevate his sound well beyond his mixtape beginnings. This new collection will include multiple collaborations, featuring contributions from Grammy-nominated R&B singer-songwriter Fridayy and fellow Jamaican dancehall artist 450, alongside a stronger R&B influence.
“For this project, I basically did one trap song,” Valiant shares with Billboard. “I aimed to provide a unique sound; I didn’t want it to resemble every other dancehall project. I desired varied emotions, so I mixed in a lot of R&B with my dancehall on this new project.”
Featuring tracks like “Selfish,” “Ugly,” and “Whole Lotta,” Prove Them Wrong has already crafted a captivating soundscape with Spanish guitar elements while exploring deep themes of masculinity and male beauty politics. With over 128 million official on-demand U.S. streams to date, according to Luminate, Valiant is eager to amplify that number as he shares his new music globally.
In conversation with Billboard, Valiant discusses his faith in the sustainability of trap dancehall, the backstory behind his stage name, and why he will always endorse Drake.
What’s the first song you remember being stuck in your head?
“Next to You” by Chris Brown and Justin Bieber.
Who are the dancehall figures that you admire as you progress in your career?
Some of the legendary figures like Shabba [Ranks], Yellowman, Vybz Kartel, and Mavado. I observe what they accomplish in the industry and try to [learn] what to emulate and what to avoid.
Why do you think younger audiences are so attracted to the sound of trap dancehall?
As young individuals, we ought to have faith in [ourselves]. In our childhood, we often rebelled against the older kids, so I believe [younger listeners] appreciate the defiance and the innovative styles we introduce through trap dancehall.
Do you believe this musical style will endure over time?
Absolutely. It’s still rooted in dancehall. If dancehall is the parent or the elder, then trap dancehall is the child.
What’s your favorite song to perform on stage?
Lately, it’s “Baddiedeh.” Previously, it was “Cut All Losses.”
Where is your favorite performing venue outside of Jamaica?
I enjoy performing in the U.K.; I also like the Bahamas and Trinidad. The U.K. has a strong affinity for dancehall; they support it heavily. Audiences genuinely come out for shows when dancehall artists perform. I recall a time in Manchester [Parish in Jamaica] when parents came backstage saying, “The kids won’t go home!” [Laughs.]
How have you evolved since releasing 4:14 in 2023?
4:14 was more of a collaborative mixtape with friends. It captured a vibe. I want my fans to experience more from me because there are many aspects I didn’t have the chance to explore in [that project]. People still approach me regularly, telling me they’re listening to 4:14 even now. I grow artistically with each song, consistently striving for new sounds and experiences. Even if I face criticism, I persist — because you never know which songs may resonate and transform your career.
Which producers did you collaborate with for Prove Them Wrong?
The producers involved in this project are DJ Mac, KVRIM, GI, Emoji Records, and Crown Heights.
How many songs should we expect?
It’s still uncertain, but it will encompass the length of an entire album. Essentially, it’s like an album.
What was the recording session for “Whole Lotta” like?
I was in the studio with KVRIM and a few other songwriters, vibing and having a good time. I sought a song that deviated from the trap theme. We aimed for it not to sound overly formal, so we blended the patois with R&B melodies and introduced Spanish guitar into the rhythm.
Do you prefer singing or rapping?
I absolutely love singing! Throughout my upbringing, I focused on singing, and I’ve honed my skills over time. I understand when to deejay and when to hold back, but I’m eager to expand my focus primarily on singing.
Which vocalists do you admire and learn from?
I appreciate the vocals of Sam Smith, as well as Alicia Keys, Adele, and John Legend. That’s the kind of music that resonates with me as well.
Who are some of your current favorite R&B artists?
I admire Chris Brown, Partynextdoor, and Fridayy too. The Weeknd.
Who do you consider the greatest rapper alive?
Eminem, followed by Drake. Drake is a versatile artist and a proven hitmaker. I’m not suggesting Kendrick [Lamar] isn’t an outstanding artist – both have their place – but if I needed to book someone, I’d choose Drake. If you bring Drake to Jamaica, there’s a high chance everyone knows at least one of his songs. If Kendrick performs, they might recognize three or four songs at most. I’m confident of that, I could place a bet on it. However, the crowd will still come out for Kendrick because he’s Kendrick.
Who are some of your dream collaborators?
Rihanna – [I wish to create] an entire album with her.
You rose to prominence during the TikTok era of the music industry. How do you think that platform has affected dancehall specifically?
It’s an effective marketing tool that allows audiences worldwide to discover your music. Both younger audiences and even older generations are engaging with TikTok, right? It serves as a platform for promoting anything, including your music, and all it requires is posting a brief video. It’s a whole new game.
How did you come up with your stage name?
I derived it from the title of a 2005 animated film about birds [fighting in World War II]. It was one of my cherished [movies] growing up, so I researched its meaning and found out that “valiant” signifies courage and bravery. I thought, “You know? It suits me well.” Initially, I went by Raheem Melody, but later I made the change.
What excites you most about this generation of dancehall artists?
I appreciate the competitive spirit; everyone wants to rise to the top. I aim to crossover. I strive for consistency. I’m glad my name is mentioned when discussing the new generation. It’s a competitive atmosphere, but it’s all about unity. The newer generation collaborates more and is willing to work together on various projects.
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
