Stage Name: Laden

Real Name: Okeefe Aarons

Birth Month: June

How did you get started in the business?

Laden: I actually started out in St Elizabeth, Jamaica with the guys from Stunt Squad and Colony that yuh hear mi call a lot in my songs. I then tried at Rising Stars and got selected for the top ten. I was the only deejay in the 2006 competition. That exposure led to me linking with top producers like Big Ship and all the rest.

What has been your greatest challenge in the business yet?

Laden: I would say the competitiveness of the music industry on a whole. You have to go extra hard and bring different things to the table because a bag a artistes out there want to be on top as well.

What have you been up to lately?

Laden: I've been all over the world doing a whole lot of shows in places like Canada, London, St Croix, New Jersey, Connecticut and New York. I'm in the studio recording songs like Still Hot with Flexxx from Gully Squad, Roll Up on Stephen's 'Street Swag' rhythm and My Lady on ZJ Chrome's 'Smoking' rhythm.

Do you look up to any specific artiste and why?

Laden: Yeah, Sean Paul, because of his achievements and what he has done for reggae music. As a youngster coming up, I admired his smooth melodies and I really respect what he has done for the music.

Are you happy with the way things are going for your musical career right now?

Laden: Mi caan complain. It's been a tremendous feeling so far.

Do you have any advice for young artistes coming up?

Laden: As I always seh, yuh have to love what you do and just mek sure seh yuh talented.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

Laden: Mi nah go limit miself, but anywhere the music takes me I will be happy for it. Mi just ago continue to do good music for the people.