T'Nez - Contributed

Stage name: T'Nez

Real name: Tristan Barnes

Birth month: September

How did you get started in the business?

T'Nez: Well I've been doing it for a while and then last year June I made a demo and sent it to Jordan from Chimney Records who listened to it and liked it. We started working together ever since.

What has been your greatest challenge in the business yet?

T'Nez: To capture the ears of the streets. I've been getting a lot of airplay like crazy on the radio, but getting in the streets is another thing. I've been doing a lot of street promotion, making links with the street selectors and handing out promo CDs, and getting people to know me.

What have you been up to lately?

T'Nez: Well, I just did a video like last week, directed by Ruption, for the songs Same Yute and Turn Mi Life Around. I've also been doing a lot of collabs. I have one to do with I-Octane, I just did one with Laden called For All My Friends. I have one to do with Aidonia very soon. I've also been doing a lot of singles for Chimney and other producers, including one for DASECA called Deh Yah Same Way a lot of work and input.

Do you look up to any specific artiste and why?

T'Nez: I respect Bounty Killer and Mavado. Bounty Killer because he's an artiste that had something to do wid significant acts in the industry like Vybz Kartel, Busy Signal, Aidonia all pass through him and they were under his wings. He provides a platform for the yutes and he's a living legend. Mavado now is a singjay like me, but before him there were mostly either singers or deejays, he twisted that up a bit and took it global.

Are you happy with the way things are going for your music career right now?

T'Nez: Yeah me good, I just need a little more promotion. The response I've been getting from people is that they know my songs but I need to get ma face out there which I'm trying to do. I just did an intense photo shoot to get some promo pics out as well.

Do you have any advice for young artistes coming up?

T'Nez: Just know sey if your coming wid a 20 per cent don't bother try; it's not a 9-5, it's right round the clock; yuh haffi eat, sleep it and have a vision. Also lots of energy and effort.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

T'Nez: Well, I see myself being one of the top yutes in dancehall weh people always a listen out for. People say I'm very consistent, and I plan to continue being consistent and doing good music constantly.