Clarendon singjay Denam draws on betrayal and hardship for Depression single

Denam’s latest record wears its mood in the title. He wrote and recorded Depression during a low point, drawing on what he has lived through close to home.

He produced the track himself. His label, 1Denam Music, issued the single in January.

“It is s based on betrayal from friends and family that I let get close to me; I almost lost my life,” Denam said. He hopes the song speaks to others who have faced comparable pain.

He said grit has carried him since youth, despite a hard start. “I’m from Raymonds in Hayes, one of the most violent communities in Clarendon. My desire was always to make it out and make something of myself,” he said. “I am still on that journey with this song.”

Bounty Killer—the artist who calls himself the “Poor People Governor”—helped steer that path. Denam said tunes about inner-city life from the veteran deejay left a mark on him. He began recording about ten years ago and has since put out tracks including Blessing.