Meet Sedrick Mckenzie, stage name SED. He was raised in the rural area of Concord district, ST. Ann, Jamaica.Reggae music has been a very instrumental part of Sed’s character building blocks. And he was always inspired by the positive vibration of many of his favorite artists.
“As a young man I relocated to Florida and years later founded my own brand and unique style of uplifting conscious reggae music. I take pride in engaging fans with clean melodious and ageless message on addictive rock the night away beats. My music is intended to pick you up and never let you down.”
Lisa: Hello Sedrick! What does reggae music mean to you?
SED : Reggae music means to me the vibration of a common people echo through music affecting the masses socially , spiritually and relationally. I will be forever thankful to the reggae greats who have paved the way. When you listen to some artist even as far back to the root of this great music such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and Jacob Miller it touch my heart and soul and left me with emotions such as comfort, joy , strength, love, and unity.
Lisa: How has growing up in Jamaica made you the person who you are today?
SED : Growing up in Jamaica gave me a greater sense of balance. It definitely makes me very resourceful. I learn at a young age how to make something out of nothing. I think the discipline was different. In hind sight I am very thankful for it. I have a great sense of appreciation for the lows and highs and things that were lacking. In each situation I learnt valuable life lessons.
Lisa: Quite a few people nowadays think that there is a huge loss in the integrity of reggae music. What would be your response to this, and how to you plan to prove them wrong?
SED : There is a huge drop off in the integrity of the music depending on what artist you tend to listen to. However, there are many artists who have been consistent in putting out good material. My intention is to continue to put out conscious ageless message on melodious beats. I am speaking of unforgettable messages that has no borders touching the hearts and soul of people.
Lisa: What do you think about the politics of the music industry?
SED : I am aware that there are politics in the music industry. I may not be able to speak in depth about a lot that goes on partly because of my limited exposure. Mostly I choose to focus on what I can control and contribute. I am determine to follow my passion despite the obstacle that are inevitable .
Lisa: You’ve moved to Florida at a young age. How do you feel about artists who aren’t Jamaican, or even Caribbean, performing reggae?
SED : Reggae music is universal. I am encourage when any artist regardless of where they are from do reggae music. What matters to me is quality. Reggae is the most listened music in many countries outside of Jamaica. I see positivity when reggae music influence people around the world even to cause them to replicate. I solute reggae lovers everywhere whether you are an artist or a fan. I have to recognize artists outside of Jamaica that greatly contributed to reggae. We can think of Shinehead, Maxi Priest, Ub40 and many more.
Lisa: I really liked your song “Extra Ordinary”. What inspired you to write it?
SED : The song “ Extra Ordinary” came to me as I observed the culture today. I saw many young ladies who were raised well who are desperately loosing their way looking for love in all the wrong places trying to fit into a culture contrary to most of the values that were instilled in them. Coming from a family of many extra ordinary women and being a father of daughters also. The song in parts is a compilation of observations and reasoning with the extra ordinary women in my life.
Lisa: Tell me more about your uplifting conscious reggae music.
SED : When I speak of uplifting conscious reggae music. I am really giving myself to the fans. I am an optimist. I believe in exhortation. When you listen to this brand of music I am hoping fans will resonate with the consciousness of the message and it will touch their hearts and soul. Music with a message.
Lisa: Who are some of your favorite artists or rather, what musicians have continued to inspire you and your music? Who would you absolutely still love to work with in the future?
SED : My favorite Artist of all time is The Honorable Robert Nester Marley. There are so many current artist that inspire me. Just to list a few : Buju Banton, Capleton, Chronix, Beres Hammond, Luciano, Sevana, Protoje, Koffee I would love to work with any of the mentioned artist especially Sevana.
Lisa: What non-musical entities and ideas have impacted your music?
SED : Non-musical entities and ideas that affected my music would be the journey of life itself. The struggles of my ancestors and their strength in being over-comers. The gospel of Christ, love for God and humanity.
Lisa: At the end of the day, what do you hope people take away from your music?
SED : When people listen to my music I hope they get that good vibes which encompasses love, encouragement, consciousness and joyfulness. I hope that my music will bring unity and oneness. In truth that’s reggae.
Lisa: Is there anything else that you’d like your fans to know about you?
SED : In addition I would like my fans to know that I am God fearing . I am a realist. I love people from all creed and color. I believe in living life to the fullest and exploring its endless possibilities. I hope that we would share the same common sentiments. Love each other and praise God.
God Bless !
SED !
Sedrick McKenzie
Thank you SED!
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