A global music project rooted in Jamaica’s rich sonic and cultural heritage is set to officially launch its full soundtrack alongside the unveiling of the Versions Hub – a digital archive preserving the stories, music, and wisdom that emerged from the journey.
Created by Darkspark, a Canadian non-profit dedicated to harnessing the power of music for social change, Versions was honoured with an Anthem Award in 2024 by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences (The Webbys) for its contributions to arts and education.
The project brought together 27 emerging youth artistes from around the world – including four from Jamaica – for a year-long fellowship, offering mentorship, wellness support, and leadership training. Emerging Jamaican talents Yinga, Lex MD, Johdan, and Kyle Haddad joined a diverse cohort of fellows from Zimbabwe, South Africa, Nigeria, Uganda, Trinidad, Canada, and the USA in a global exchange of voices and perspectives.
Inspired by Jamaica’s versioning and juggling traditions (where artistes create unique songs over the same shared riddims to showcase diverse voices and perspectives), participants collaborated with thought leaders, celebrity mentors, and top-tier producers to craft powerful music, as well as design and deliver community impact projects.
Versions is the brainchild of Mel Larkin and D’Ari Lisle, musicians and social innovators who have spent years using music and storytelling to create transformative experiences for youth worldwide. Their past work earned an award for intercultural innovation from the United Nations.
“Versions is a love letter to Jamaica honouring the resilience, creativity, and impact of our elders and ancestors, while passing that legacy to the next generation and the world at large,” said Lisle. “This project is a tribute to that legacy, a testament to how music can be a tool for empowerment, a voice for the unheard, and a catalyst for social justice.”
Drawing inspiration from mentors Sean Paul, Lila Ike, Chronixx and Mutabaruka; and the wisdom of Dr Carolyn Cooper, Mikie Bennett, and Uncle Ronnie of 8 Mile Sound, the emerging artistes reimagined the Jamaican tradition of versioning. With music production from JLL and The Wixard, they crafted original songs over shared riddims, breathing new life into a practice that has empowered voices for generations.
The project’s deep Jamaican roots were strengthened by the work of Kareece Lawrence, artiste and community engagement and content producer, and child justice leader Heather Gallimore, with additional support from Sharon Burke and Team Shaggy and Gabre Selassie of Kingston Dub Club.
The impact of Versions extends far beyond the recording studio. Each participant developed and implemented a social impact project benefiting their communities.
The final music soundtrack will be released on February 27.
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