Bringing dancehall soul fusion from St. Maarten to the world
For this week’s Hot Seat, Out N About sat down with rising Caribbean artiste Gavin Kash, whose music is rooted in the vibrant rhythms of the region while reaching out to audiences around the globe. With his latest single “Church Girl Bad Gal” that was just dropped on August 15, we caught up with Gavin to talk music, culture, and what makes St. Maarten-St. Martin so special.
1. Please tell us a little about yourself and your sound.
I’m a singer, songwriter, and performer repping the beautiful island of St. Maarten-St. Martin. My sound blends reggae, dancehall and soul music that speak from the heart while keeping the energy high. I like to think of it as a bridge between my roots and the world.
2. How would you describe your music style?
I call my music style Dancehall Soul Fusion. It’s the pulse of the Caribbean – from reggae, to dancehall, tunes all mixed with the emotion and depth of soul music. It’s melodic, rhythmic, and tells real stories. Every song I make is meant to move you physically and emotionally.
3. Can you tell us about growing up on the island and how that developed you as a diverse and soulful individual?
I was born in Georgetown, Guyana, and moved to St. Maarten when I was young. St. Maarten-St. Martin is a true cultural melting pot where you hear soca, zouk, reggae, R&B, and hip-hop all in one day. That mix of cultures and sounds really shaped me. It taught me to respect different perspectives and allowed me to blend genres naturally while keeping my Caribbean identity strong.
4. How did you get started in the music industry?
It started with small performances, school events, community gatherings and getting involved in studio recordings, collaborations with local producers, and eventually sharing my music on a wider scale. I built connections with DJs, producers, and fans one step at a time. It’s been a grassroots journey, but that’s what makes it real.
5. Why did you choose to have a career in music?
Because I felt it chose me. Music has always been more than a passion – it’s therapy, it’s communication, it’s connection. When I realized that my voice could inspire or comfort someone, that’s when I knew this was the path I had to take.
6. What do you love about working in the music industry?
I love the connection. Whether it’s performing live and hearing the crowd sing back your lyrics, or getting a DM from someone saying your song got them through a hard day, that kind of impact is priceless. Plus, the creative process is addictive; it keeps me learning and growing constantly.
7. Tell us about any other milestone in your career.
Definitely. The release of my latest single, Church Girl Bad Gal, which dropped on August 15, is a powerful track that fuses dancehall rhythms with a soulful narrative about identity, duality, and being true to yourself. It’s the kind of music that represents where I’m from and where I’m going. I’ve also performed alongside some big names and had tracks played on international radio, which has been a blessing.
8. Can you share a bit more about your experience in this creative profession?
It’s a mix of hustle, heart and business. Being an independent artiste means wearing a lot of hats, like creating, promoting, networking, managing; but it also means having creative freedom, and that’s everything. You learn to balance the art and the grind.
9. What are your other interests outside of music?
I’m big on community work. I love exploring local food spots, and the ocean always calls me. I’m also into creative projects like video production and storytelling – anything that lets me express and connect.
10. Have you released any album recently?
No album yet; I’m focused on singles right now to keep delivering fresh music. “Church Girl Bad Gal” is the latest, and it’s available on all streaming platforms. I like building momentum song by song, letting each one breathe and resonate.
11. What is your favourite place to recommend for a meal or a night out in St. Maarten-St. Martin?
Sak Chillspot at 112 A.TH. Illidge Road is the place to be! The food is fresh seafood, oxtail, curry goat, and fried chicken; and the vibes are always on point. Big shout out to Stasha for keeping the experience authentic! It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting a real taste of the island.
12. What makes St. Maarten magical to you?
The energy and the people – there’s warmth here, not just from the sun but from the culture. The mix of languages, traditions, music and cuisine creates this unique rhythm of life. It’s the kind of place that fuels creativity and grounds you at the same time.
For more info:
Instagram: @realgavinkash; Spotify: Gavin Kash Apple Music; Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
