He is still young, but his style, talent and lyrical
prowess are far advanced for his age. Deejay Assassin, known to his family as Jeffrey Campbell, chose his
stage name after coming out on top in several deejay
clashes among his friends, while attending high school.
However, the positive thinking youngster who is under
the guidance of the Penthouse label, is serious about
putting his musical career on higher ground. Its no
mere coincidence that Penthouse was responsible for
the success of a number of reggae and dancehall stalwarts
over the past decade. Cutty Ranks, Marcia Griffiths,
Tony Rebel, Wayne Wonder and Buju Banton are among
the those listed.
A former student of the Camperdown High School, Assassin
successfully completed 6th form prior to embarking
on his musical endeavours. His talent not only lies
within his vocal style, but also in his songwriting
capabilities. He has written songs for artistes in
the Red Square Crew, including fellow deejay and mentor,
Spragga Benz.
“ I write songs that deal with societal issues
that plague families and communities across Jamaica”,
he said. He also added, “I really want to make
a meaningful contribution to music and eventually
help myself and my family of 4 brothers and 5 sisters.
That is one of the main reasons why I strive so hard
to do well at whatever I do. I look at what is happening
in the society and interpret that in my songs to the
listeners”.
An intelligent and positive youngster (something
which is rare among deejays in the dancehalls), Assassin
is making sure that he has a sound education to work
as a backup if his musical career doesn’t work
out. He majored in History and Sociology while in
High school. A degree in Business Management is something
he feels will help him in his ambitious entertainment
endeavors.
“ I want to move up the social ladder and take
my family with me”, he said. He hopes to make
a name for himself, a quest which looks all set to
come to fore. Already he has recorded songs for the
likes of the Penthouse label, Natural Bridge Records,
the First Name label among others. His better known
songs to date include “Make Money” (on
the First Name label’s Full Moon rhythm); “Dedicated
to the World” (with Sugar Slick for the Natural
Bridge label’s “rice and peas” rhythm)’ “Pon di Ends” (Penthouse); “How
We Roll”; “Friend and Company”;
“Oh Damn It”; “How Fi Get it”;
“You Young”; “Won’t”
and “Gi Wi Dem” (with Red Square on the
Ward 21 “trilogy” rhythm).
Among his musical influences are Buju Banton, Luciano,
Spragga Benz and Bounty Killer. He is especially appreciative
of Spragga, whom he highlights for the brotherly advice
that he has given him from time to time.
Assassin has been busy doing the promotional rounds.
Appearances at local nightclubs and stage shows, have
been warmly received by appreciative crowds.
“ The thing to do is to try and find some kind
of motivation and believe in yourself and your talent.
There will always be elements that will challenge
that, but as long as you know you are doing the right
thing, you will make it”, he said with confidence.