Interview: Jahvillani Talks New Album ‘Dirt To Bentley’

From his potent lyrics in Nuh Reason, his allegiance affirmations in Wileside Government to his international sensationalizing in Clarks Pon Foot, St Ann born Dancehall artist Jahvillani has made an indelible mark in the industry.  Born Dujon Mario Edwards, Jahvillani caught the attention of longstanding record label VP Records to partner in the release of his debut album, Dirt to Bentley.

From 1Govt.Badness to Jahvi 3:16, Dirt to Bentley comes full circle on matters of fame, love, and hardships.  Though leaning heavily on familiar concepts and lacking a female’s voice, fans have gravitated to the album’s marketable and relatable messages. Two weeks post-release, DancehallMag caught up with Jahvillani to get his take on the making of a solid debut and what he has planned next.

How do you feel about your first-week album sales, (and the response that you’ve been getting from your fans) having sold 225 units in the US?

Mi feel good still. For my first album, feel nice fi know say ppl actually a stream the thing. The reception from the fans has been great and I feel like I have gained new fans.

What inspired the name, Dirt to Bentley?

It was inspired by my rise to fame, from nothing to something, my journey to success.

What were your expectations for this album?

Well, my expectations, to be honest, I never had any high high hopes, because a nuh everyday people gonna like your music but mi did always hope for the best while preparing for the worst. Regardless, I know my talent and I know my capabilities.

Do you have a favorite song from the album?

On every song I gave my all, but GOD.ly is my favorite. I connected more with that one. It’s my favorite flow and melody.

What was it like working with Kranium on Dirt to Bentley, from the making of the song to the shooting of the video?

It was a great experience. Been a listen Kranium fi years so it was great to just work alongside a legend to create something legendary. The video shoot was lone vibes, shooting in my home parish, in the rural community of Steer Town.

By the end of the shoot the people from the community were watching and we just called them into the video, and we just celebrated right there and then, as can be seen at the end of the official video.

Pro-Gress is currently the lead single from the album, what was the inspiration for that song and how would you describe your progress from the beginning of your career to now?

Pro-Gress basically has the same definition as the album, as the hook says from a dalla to a mil. While Dirt to Bentley is a smoother flow, Pro-Gress is a more hardcore take on the same theme. I think my progress has been great for me because nobody knew me one time, nobody knew of my music and now I am famous and I could be able to release an album that I am proud of, that’s exceptional progress.

The album has been noted for its unique arrangement, especially the arrangement of the love songs from Smooth, to Love at First Sight, Dat Way, Powerful Vibe to ultimately Broken, was this planned, or was it after the making of the songs that you and your team realized the iconic line-up?

The album was actually arranged by VP. The song Broken was recorded from about 2017. I never expected it to be on the album but when VP heard it, they loved it and re-mastered it and added it to the album. A never my arrangement but it just shows my versatility and consistency.

Are any of these love songs dedicated to someone special?

Definitely, nah call nuh name but the music is real.

10 of 13 of the tracks were produced by YGF Records, what’s the connection there? Why YGF Records?

The first song I ever recorded was with YGF and it’s like a family thing up till now. From 2013 to 2021 the connection hasn’t changed so it was only right for him to be on this project with me.

Should we expect more visuals from the album?

Yes definitely, we will be releasing music videos of the fan favorites.

Lastly, the fans want to know do you really own a Bugatti?

No, I don’t. For now, I own the ghetto Bugatti.

Jahvillani’s Dirt To Bentley is available on Spotify and all streaming platforms.