We had the good fortune of connecting with Donovan Watkis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Donovan, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I wanted to change the entertainment business and make an impact on the culture. Specifically putting Reggae and Dancehall on the map in the way it is measured and consumed worldwide.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My journey to where I am today in the entertainment business world has been a rewarding yet challenging one. Show business is about standing out and that is an ongoing task to be on the cutting edge of music business. I have a passion for doing things different so the challenges I encountered along the way have been instrumental in shaping my Business. I’ve learned the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Whether it was breaking into the entertainment industry, managing artists, or founding my marketing and media agency, Think Ed Media, each step came with its set of obstacles. Overcoming these challenges required a combination of talent, hard work, and the willingness to continually learn and evolve.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned that innovation and creativity are key to success, especially when bridging the gap between marketing, advertising, music and culture. My work with clients like the Bank Of Jamaica, where I used reggae to convey their message, received international recognition and taught me the power of thinking outside the box and going with the gut feeling when creating. Additionally, my role as a writer and media influencer has shown me the immense value of storytelling and this has helped many artists who I work with both on a local and global scale.

What I want the world to know about me is that my passion for promoting Jamaican culture and music is unwavering. My journey has been marked by a deep commitment to showcasing the richness of our culture and the talents that emerge from it. I hope that my story and the World Music Views® inspire others to pursue their passions and make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields, no matter how diverse or challenging their interests may be.

In the world of entertainment, music, and media, I strive to be a beacon of creativity, innovation, and make it cool.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would got to the place I like very music, Portland, in the country, where much of the top music in the world is made and you can find the most naturally beautiful spots.

Day 1: Arrival in Port Antonio

We would stay at Geejam resort when they have a state of the art music studio.
Chill for the evening at the hotel’s bar, enjoying reggae music or whatever is playing on the sound system, while sipping on favorite drink. My favorite drink I Blackwell Rum on the rocks with a lite ginger.

Day 2: Blue Lagoon and Frenchman’s Cove

Begin the day with a visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon, known for its mesmerizing blue waters.
Head to Frenchman’s Cove, a picturesque beach surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
In the evening, dine at one of the local seafood restaurants for fresh catches of the day.

Day 3: Reach Falls and Boston Jerk Center

Explore Rafting on the Rio Grande, that is the best thing I have ever done. Have lunch right there on the water.

Day 4: Rafting on the Rio Grande

Enjoy a scenic and serene bamboo rafting trip on the Rio Grande River.
Stop for a riverside picnic or lunch at a local riverside restaurant.
In the evening, check out local nightlife and enjoy live reggae music at a beachfront bar.

Day 5: Blue Mountain Coffee and Port Antonio’s Art Scene

Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains and tour a coffee farm to learn about Jamaica’s world-renowned Blue Mountain Coffee.
Return to Port Antonio and explore the local art scene, visit Navy Island, see some small galleries.
Savor a farm-to-table dinner at a local cook-shop.

Day 6: Boston Bay and Long Bay Beach

Visit Boston Bay, famous for its surf and traditional jerk shacks. ( I can’t Surf)
Spend the afternoon at Long Bay Beach, known for its clear waters and serene ambiance.
Try water sports like paddleboarding, snorkeling, or kayaking.

Day 7: Explore Nature

Explore the stunning Somerset Falls, a tranquil waterfall with lush gardens.
Take a boat tour to Monkey Island to spot local wildlife.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shout out to all the artists, singers, dancers, deejays, rappers, writers, business moguls and anyone who do create things to feed their families.

Website: worldmusicviews.com

Twitter: @jrwatkis,@worldmusicviews

Facebook: Facebook.com/worldmusicviews.com

Youtube: YouTube.com/worldmusicviews

Image Credits
Dash Jones Copyright World Music Views

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.