MELBOURNE Dyke, more popularly known as ‘Vital’, former student of Warren Hall High School, is proving that his sound and message is significant in the music business.

This 27-year-old says he not only entertains, but also teaches in his lyrics.

TEENage: How did you get started in music?

Vital: It all started when I was a young child, no more than eight-years-old. I used to listen to the songs of the popular deejays back then and sing their songs.

TEENage: Why music as a career?

Vital: Well, for me it was the music that chose me, I didn’t choose music. It was just meant to be.

TEENage: Other than music, what career path would you have chosen?

Vital: If it wasn’t music, I would be pursuing a career in electrical installation and plumbing.

TEENage: How would you describe your music?

Vital: I would describe my type of music as original and authentic. Wherever you hear my songs you just know that’s Vital.

TEENage: What influences your music?

Vital: The things that influence my music is everyday life. Things that have happened to me, or persons I know, stories about other person’s life. Just life stories.

TEENage: Which international and local artistes would you work with?

Vital: Locally, I would do a song with Mavado and internationally it would be Rihanna. Reason being, they both have unique voices and the love and hardwork they put into their music is inspiring.

TEENage: Which artiste do you see as a musical role model and why?

Vital: There are many of them, persons like Sizzla, Capleton, Bounty Killa I-Octane and Konshens, just to name a few.

TEENage: What has been the most memorable part of your career so far?

Vital: It’s just the feeling I get after a performance, knowing the audience was well entertained.

TEENage: Which song would you say is your most recognised track?

Vital: The song I did on the Bubble Gum Riddim, called Show Love (Life Hard).

TEENage: Do you have any current projects working on now?

Vital: Currently, I’m recording new singles, and doing videos. I have a new track on Washrooms Entertainment’s, Dog Bite Riddim. Just crazy work.

TEENage: Where do you see Vital in the next five years?

Vital: Still doing music of course, making a name for myself in the music industry.

TEENage: Where has you music taken you so far?

Vital: Well right now I’m not touring or anything like that. Just small shows here and there getting my music out there to the people.

TEENage: How does your family feel about your career choice?

Vital: I have a strong family support when it comes to me and music, they back me 100 per cent.

TEENage: What advice would you give to young persons wanting to do music as a career?

Vital: First, you have to love music and then love yourself. Also try and find a producer with the same love and passion for music and work with them.

— O’Neil Grant