Alozade

Born Michael Sterling around 1976 in Kingston, Jamaica, Alozade left behind computer studies in the UK after the dancehall scene captured his imagination and drew him toward a career as a DJ. Back on the island he connected with the Stone Love sound system, whose release of his first single “Top Of The Line” marked the start of his ascent as a dancehall don. His next effort, “Mr Mention,” came under the guidance of producer Dennis “Star” Hayes and paved the way for a string of local successes. Byron Murray soon stepped in as manager, issuing the chart-topping “Street Dreams” on the In The Streetz imprint. While keeping Murray’s managerial support, Alozade kept working with additional producers to stay visible in the unpredictable dancehall landscape. In the summer of 2000 he cut the pointed “Bad Man Nah Pet Gal” with Flabba Malcolm; the track remained on the charts for four months. That sustained visibility prompted further releases, among them “Chi Chi Crew” paired with General B’s “Dem Nuh,” “Raise Your Hands” alongside Chico’s “Move Excited,” plus “Bad Man Cousin” and “More Woman.” Having secured his place in dancehall, he emerged as a sex symbol whose female admirers routinely crowded him onstage and on the streets. Like many rising Jamaican artists, he issued countless singles without releasing an album, the conventional route to wider recognition. His standing rose further when “Bad Man Nah Pet Gal” appeared on VP Records’ Strictly The Best Volume 25 compilation.