Chezidek is a Jamaican roots reggae singer, born Desbert Johnson in Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica, in 1973. He also performs under the name Mel-Chezidek, though he later shortens this to Chezidek. His work is associated with roots reggae, and he is linked with reggae and dancehall sounds through his early performances on sound systems and in dance and talent shows.

Early life and beginnings

Chezidek starts singing at school concerts and is a member of St. Ann’s Bay Marching Band. After leaving school, he performs in his area on sound systems as Chilla Rinch, both singing and DJing. His musical influences include Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff and Culture. He develops an interest in positive cultural music and African roots, which leads him towards Rastafari.

Recording career

He later moves from St. Ann’s Bay to Kingston, where he links up with producer Phillip “Fattis” Burrell of Xterminator Production. In 2002 he records his first album, Harvest Time, which is distributed by VP Records. The album includes the tracks “Can’t Hear Must Feel”, “Breakfree” and the title track “Harvest Time”, and it receives airplay in Jamaica and Europe.

His first number one single is “Leave De Trees”, released on the Our Promotion label and produced by Hugh Miller, also known as Bunny Dan. The song carries an environmental message and reaches the BBC top 10 dancehall chart.

Notable songs and releases

Chezidek is known for songs including “Call Pon Dem”, “Can’t Hear Must Feel”, “Inna Di Road” and “Leave De Trees”. “Call Pon Dem”, from the album Inna Di Road, appears on the Massive B sound system station in Grand Theft Auto IV and also on the Official GTA IV Soundtrack. His album Inna Di Road is produced by Bobby “Massive B” Konders and distributed by Greensleeves Records.

Live appearances and recognition

He performs at major events including Magnum Sting, Teen Splash, Dancehall Jam Jam, Bob Marley Tribute, Tribute to Peter Tosh, Rebel Salute and Western Consciousness. He also receives a best new artiste award from the Jamaica Federation of Music and Affiliated Artiste for Middlesex County.