Early Life and Background
Charly Black, born Desmond Méndez on April 6, 1980, in Rio Bueno, Trelawny Parish, Jamaica, is a prominent figure in the reggae and dancehall music scenes. Raised in the rural countryside of Rio Bueno, he developed an early interest in music, participating in singing competitions from the age of five. He attended Rio Bueno Primary and High School, where he honed his musical talents. Initially known as Tony Mentol, he later adopted the stage name Charly Black to reflect his evolving musical identity
Musical Career and Rise to Prominence
Early Beginnings
Charly Black’s musical journey began in the early 2000s. His first recorded single, “Woman It’s You”, was released in 2004 under the direction of Tree Top Records. This track marked the beginning of his professional career, leading to a series of successful releases that established his presence in the dancehall scene. He was associated with sound systems such as Warlord International and Bass Odyssey, which played a significant role in shaping his musical style and performance skills.
Breakthrough and International Success
In 2014, Charly Black achieved international recognition by releasing “Gyal You a Party Animal”. The song, based on Kurt Riley’s Jambe-An riddim, gained popularity in regions including Mexico, South America, and Spain. It became one of the most-watched dancehall videos on YouTube, amassing over 238 million views as of February 2022. The track’s success was further amplified by remixes from artists like Maluma, Daddy Yankee, and Jillionaire, broadening its appeal across diverse audiences.
Recent Works and Collaborations
Charly Black’s musical endeavors continued flourishing with the release of his latest album, “No Excuses”, on February 24, 2023. The 15-track album showcases his growth as an artist, blending traditional dancehall sounds with innovative elements. Distributed by ONErpm, the album features collaborations with various artists and has been well-received by both critics and fans.
In addition to his solo projects, Charly Black has collaborated with several international artists, including Jencarlos Canela on the single “Pa Que Me Invitan” and Gloria Trevi on “Me Lloras”, further cementing his status as a global music ambassador.
Musical Style and Influences
Charly Black’s music is characterized by its infectious rhythms, catchy melodies, and relatable lyrics. His style seamlessly blends traditional dancehall with elements of pop and reggaeton, creating a sound that resonates with a wide audience. He cites a diverse range of influences, including Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Bounty Killer, U2, Phil Collins, and Josey Wales, which have shaped his musical approach and artistic vision.
Personal Life
Charly Black is a family-oriented individual, known to have six children. He maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing public attention on his music and professional endeavors. His upbringing in the countryside of Jamaica has instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for his cultural roots.
Legacy and Impact
Charly Black’s contributions to the reggae and dancehall genres have left an indelible mark on the music industry. His ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while staying true to his roots has garnered him a dedicated global fan base. With his continued success and influence, Charly Black remains a prominent figure in the world of reggae and dancehall music.
Discography
Studio Albums
- No Excuses (2023)
Compilation Albums
- Multi-Talented (2013)
- Rio Bueno (2021)
EPs
- Best Whine Riddim (featuring Kooly Chat) (2011)
Notable Singles
- “Woman It’s You” (2004)
- “Buddy Buddy” (2008)
- “Rich This Year” (2009)
- “Fall in Love Again” (2010)
- “Whine & Kotch” (featuring J Capri) (2012)
- “Gyal You a Party Animal” (2015)
- “Girlfriend” (2016)
- “Hoist & Wine” (2016)
- “Big Bumper” (2016)
- “Just Do It” (2016)
- “Bruk Out” (2016)
- “Often” (2016)
- “VIP Girl” (2017)
- “Sidung” (2020)
- “Charly” (2021)
Notable Collaborations
- “Pa Que Me Invitan” (with Jencarlos Canela) (2016)
- “Me Lloras” (with Gloria Trevi) (2018)
Live Performances and Recognition
Charly Black’s dynamic stage presence has earned him recognition and accolades in the music industry. In 2016, he became the first Jamaican artist to receive a Diamond certification in Central America, a testament to the widespread popularity of “Gyal You a Party Animal” in the region. His performances have taken him to various international stages, including Mexico, Costa Rica,
