Alva - Contributed

Since his 16th birthday, Oliver 'Alva' Black has had his eye on musical greatness and is working hard to make his name known across Jamaica and the world.

Born in Spanish Town and raised in Sandy Bay, Clarendon, the upcoming artiste has been patiently awaiting his time to shine.

He started doing music professionally almost two years ago and sees Sizzla, Garnet Silk, Buju Banton and I-Octane as being among his inspirations.

He always tries to keep his music real, as he said: "The music wah mi a do right now a thing wah mi live, wah mi feel and see a happen every day. It's life itself, everything around me."

Alva describes his music as being cultural, positive and inspiring, and in years to come he wants to be recognised as a conscious reggae artiste who spreads positive messages to all parts of the world.

He has faced numerous problems on his musical journey and has had to deal with persons who, he said, does not like to see growth and prosperity. He looks past this, however, with the popular saying that 'a prayer a day keep the devil away'.

Most of his time is spent at Nature's Way Studio in St Ann creating songs to add to his catalogue, which already includes How Dem Ago Stop We, Mama Grow Me Good, All We Need, The System, Pressure and Protest.

Alva: