From Guyana to the USA and back
For those close to the dancehall fraternity in Guyana and the USA when you hear the name O.C Dread, the first thought that comes to mind is the Energy Squad. But whatever that initial thought might be O.C Dread has branded his name and his crew as a multi-talented sound system that’s quickly spreading throughout the airwaves.
Be it DJ, Emcee or promoter he has and still carries all these titles. And while he’s been mostly in the USA with short visits to Guyana he’s about to create what he calls a whirlwind to add his bit to the development of the local entertainment industry.
“I’m about to drop some real international shows starting in a matter of weeks.”
Though he spends much of his time in the USA unapologetically he states, “I am a son of the soil and my musical journey began in the land of my birth, my paradise on Earth, Guyana.”
Ocie Ross, who goes by the stage name OC Dread, learnt all the oldies and goldies from the 80’s under the guidance of a man he calls Roland B. At age 11, he was already spinning records with Jamroc crew but to him thus far his big break began with playing for the ever popular and probably the most sought after sound system, Fusion.
“It was at this point that I really began making my mark in Guyana’s Entertainment industry then he migrated to New York in the 90’s”.
He is confident that the sky is always the limit and pointed that to him New York offered him even bigger dreams and overwhelming success. After moving there, OC Dread worked with Lion Heart and Studio 1 but something keeps pulling him to step out on his own and chase after his dreams of being the man in charge.
The birth of O.C. Dread & Da Energy Squad moved from a dream to a reality. “We are always thinking outside the box and defying the odds.” He categorically states that he believes that “we have the energy to rock any crowd”.
As an entertainer O.C. Dread can perfectly scratch, mix or blend any track with ease. He has shared stages with many world renowned artists such as Serani, Spice, Natural Black, Capleton, Busy Signal as well as with other systems; standing out as one of the best entertainers at every location he touched.
Like many entertainers he confesses that music is his calling. “I love every aspect of this fascinating industry.” His hats include DJ, Emcee and a Promoter too and arguably he does it all and commendably so too.
Returning to his roots
Having lived out of Guyana for quite some time he has gained much experience but now his career calling seems to be for a return to his roots.
With conviction OC Dread said, “I want to be a part of this already thriving Entertainment industry…Guyana’s culture is rich and diverse and I want my sound system to be its musical melting pot.”
To him O.C. Dread & Da Energy Squad could be the final piece of the puzzle that will take Guyana’s Entertainment industry “from great to exceptional.”
Aside from being a professional, entrepreneur and amazingly talented person, O.C. Dread is very compassionate. He is also looking to help others with dreams of building the entertainment industry.
He says, “I want to help launch the musical careers of my fellow Guyanese and share my expertise with them. He also confesses that he has worked closely alongside fellow Guyanese artistes and promoters such as Natural Black, First Born, Pamela Maynard, X 2 and others. He is advising that entertainment seekers should look out for his promotions and events as Guyana prepares for Easter and beyond.
Although he resides in New York he says, “My heart will forever be in Guyana. I am Guyanese for life and I love my people and my country”.
He said that living away has given him an appreciation for his homeland even more and remaining true to our pledge he says, “I pledge to always dedicate my energies towards the happiness and prosperity of Guyana. To my fellow Guyanese, I want you to know that climbing the ladder of success is tough, getting there is hard work, but for those who want it badly enough it’s all worth it. And don’t forget, it’s okay to stumble but all you got to do is count it an experience, dust yourself off and keep going.
His first event is a Bright Colors Affairs at Club Cloud 9 on Easter Sunday, while on Easter Monday he will be hosting a big Appreciation Party at Club Wild Palms where he will be launching with Ed Hardy Vodka.
By Mondale Smith