Sadeke Brooks, STAR Writer

Kareem - Winston Sill

Kareem has had several challenges in his 21 years of existence. He has carried guns and faced numerous 'worldly' temptations but his main difficulty has been as a gospel artiste.

Though baptised at 10 years old, Kareem Bell strayed away from his beliefs and became heavily involved in secular music and culture. He has recorded for Vendetta and Endless Productions. Also, through his friend and former schoolmate, Jordan Mais, he was introduced to Beres Hammond whom he has worked with on minor projects.

"I strayed from the Church because I couldn't find vibes and the hype that I was looking for as a young person. As young people back in the days, you neva really understand what church was all about, but as I got older I understand," said Kareem.

As a youth in August Town, St. Andrew, he was influenced to do wrong that could have changed his path but Kareem managed to persevere. "In the garrison, I used to carry guns. I was one of the persons that had links. Badman dem have dem gun so yuh have access to it. If yuh want it yuh can get it to defend yourself," commented Kareem.

Kareem was able to move away from these circumstances to land himself a job at Coral Cliffs in Montego Bay. He has also worked in the hotel industry as an entertainment coordinator for hotels like Sandals Montego Bay, Starfish and Jamaica Grande.

His involvement in the hotel industry helped to usher his return to the Church. In 2004 he was still in the hotel circuit when his friend, Martin, helped him to see his way into the Church. While Martin was influential, in 2006 it was Katalyst Crew and JAI's Cant Take that really inspired him.

Inspiration

"It was the first song that really inspired me from dem time deh fi really start tek it serious. When mi hear it mi wonda if a really dis mi a miss," added Kareem.

He started working seriously with producer Dale 'Dizzle' Virgo, who later introduced him to his inspiration, Katayst Crew, who were in search of a lead singer after JAI left the group. He landed the position as lead singer which he held for eight months.

While the experience as part of the group was a good one, he says he was destined to start his solo career.

"God gave me a leadership position. God seh, 'Yute yuh different an' yuh need fi step out an' walk an' preach differently'," said Kareem.

He said that he did not like travelling in a group and preferred to see himself as a man of God walking alone to spread the Word. He says the group would not necessarily follow through with his visions because it was not their calling. Furthermore, he had to listen to other group members or the manager.

This solo decision was his dream but it was almost shattered by persons within his faith whom he believed would have helped him. He says he was signed to Aramac Entertainment in June but broke the five-year contract in December last year.

"I am not a person that people can go around. You can't be a Christian and know that I have the zeal towards the kingdom and they are the ones getting me down. They say they are what they are but they aren't like that." He added, "Small garden but bitter weeds."

He is determined not to fall by the wayside as he keeps himself occupied. He teaches drumming to children. He will also release his album this year. It will feature hit songs like Jesus A Mi Daddy, Why, Sweet Lord, Lift My Hands and Jump Around.

By February this year he plans to start Genuflex Restoration Organisation with some of his friends. He says through the organisation they will minister to young people through school and community tours.