In 2020, the surplus time I had due to the the Covid-19 pandemic directed my focus towards something I wanted to do for a long time. However, the journey proved far from easy. After 15 drafts and 6 edits, four years later, I am thrilled to announce the completion of my first book, “ESSENTIAL NOTES: A Glimpse of the Reality of the Music Industry,” scheduled for publication on May 28th.
Title: Essential Notes: A Glimpse Into the Reality Of the Music Industry
Edited: @jesse_serwer
Line edited: @fut_err_apt10
Cover design: @officialcymatics
Graphics: @shervelthesheep@iamkrazzyd
WOW!!! When I first sat down to write this book, I’d never imagined it being selected for a curriculum at a prestigious institution like the University of the West Indies. I am incredibly humbled and honoured. Special thanks to Professor Donna P. Hope, Dr. Dave Gosse, and Mrs. Heather Thompson.
So far, I can’t count how many significant family occasions I’ve missed because of travel for work. I try to do my best to make up for my absence, but the truth is, we only get to witness certain moments once in life. I am positive many more people in the music industry can relate as well.
Essential Note: “A Glimpse into the Reality of the Music Industry” available online and in select stores May 28th.
🎥 @shervelthesheep 🎹 @cjthechemist
#EssentialNotes Trailer
Essential Notes was a blast , from working behind the scenes with production and execution to being a young master of ceremonies! I am truly grateful for this opportunity. Thank you to @danishkawill for trusting me with this . @squidell_apt10 thank you for believing in me to take your event on . And thank you to the amazing panel for making the event truly exceptional . My all time favorite artiste @govanagenna always say to not give up on your dreams and this was such an accomplishment for me without knowing. From announcing a beautiful panel with @jesseroyal1 omg to seeing @officialyaksta perform I’m such a blessed girl ! #jamaica #music #entertainment #essential #notes
A look back at Essential Notes: The Seminar — A Glimpse into the Music Industry, @essentialnotesseminar which proved to be an overwhelming success. Months of planning came together for an engaging and insightful event that brought members of the music fraternity together to share knowledge, experiences and real industry perspectives. Special thanks to the dedicated organisers, the incredible panelists for their wisdom, and all the attendees who came through and showed support.
Gratitude also goes out to our valued sponsors and the University of the West Indies for helping make the seminar possible. The energy, conversations and connections made this year truly memorable. See you again next year. 🎤✨
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My debut book has taken on a new life—one that is more practical in form. The objective hasn’t changed. The insights written on its pages remain the same: reshaping thought and suggesting strategies to help build a successful, long-lasting career. #EssentialNote #EssentialNotesSeminar
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Today is the day!
Essential Notes is finally here! You can’t afford to miss it. Don’t be late ,it all starts at 5:30 PM! Come ready for the vibes, the knowledge, and the connection with the music industry.
See you soon! 🔥
#jamaica #essentialnotes #music #students #creativeindustry
One Riddim. Many Artists. Different Outcomes.
Ever wondered why some songs on the same riddim become global hits while others barely make a ripple? Let’s talk about it.
Join us at the Essential Notes Seminar next week Thursday, March 12, from 6–9 PM at the Neville Hall Lecture Theatre as we dive into all things music and the entertainment industry from artistry and branding to business and longevity.
Whether you’re an aspiring artist, creative, or just passionate about music culture, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.
Register now to secure your spot. #jamaica #workinghardnothardlyworking #uwi #music #essentialnotes
I am beyond excited for the first staging of the Essential Notes Seminar. Big thanks to all the panelists, moderators, and sponsors who have joined me on this journey to help shape the future of the music industry.
đź—“ March 12, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
đź“Ť Neville Hall Lecture Theatre
Expect insight. Expect inspiration. Expect entertainment.
ADMISSION: FREE
The Essential Notes Seminar welcomes our second moderator: Dr. Dennis Howard, Lecturer at UWI Mona.
Dr. Howard is the Entertainment and Cultural Enterprise Management B.A. Programme Coordinator at the Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS), UWI Mona.
He is the author of Rantin’ from Inside the Dancehall and The Creative Echo Chamber: Contemporary Music Production in Kingston, Jamaica.
Announcing one of the two moderators who will be steering the powerful discussion at the Essential Notes Seminar: seasoned media practitioner, disc jockey, and Grammy-nominated producer, ZJ Sparks.
Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Sparks draws inspiration from the vibrant sounds of the Caribbean and Africa. Her music has been featured on Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta (Spice’s “Indicator”) and VH1’s Basketball Wives (Collie Buddz’s “I Feel So Good”). She was also a featured producer on Devin Di Dakta’s Grammy-nominated Reggae For Her EP.
Over the years, Sparks has collaborated with an impressive roster of artistes, including “Bumaye” singer Busy Signal, “Party Animal” hitmaker Charly Black, Vybz Kartel, Morgan Heritage, Spice, Collie Buddz, Sizzla, Capleton, Gage, and “Put Your Back In It” hitmaker and top TikTok artiste Denise Belfon, among others.
