There's a surge of music coming from the Southern Caribbean that is outside of the typical reggae box. No longer is the coveted Caribbean sound solely Jamaican but a hybrid of cultures and influences. We are witnessing an emergence of fresh, organic sounds and artists that have retained an essence of individuality while still deriving from common elements.

Barbados seems to have taken the lead with Grammy winner Rihanna, Atlantic Records artist Rupee (Tempted to Touch), Alison Hinds (Roll it Gal) and now singer songwriter David Kirton (Time for Change). These artists have broken the glass ceiling set by Jamaicans and bring with them unique sounds, history, presentations and messages.

Don't let his long golden dreadlocks fool you, David Kirton's sound and aura is far from a 'typical' reggae artist. His music is a unique hybrid of rock - pop and reggae that moves past the reverent Caribbean rhythms of the past and on to the airwaves, dance floors and digital devices of future. It sits comfortably in play lists surrounded by Jack Johnson, Nora Jones, Sting, Bob Marley, Seal and Ben Harper. Kirton's fans are not looking for Prison stories, hate messages or graphic sex songs to download on their ipod. His music touches the heart, head and feet, making you feel, think and dance.

Courted in the past by numerous major US labels Kirton chose to be part of the new generation of artists who embraced the modern music business model by owning his record label and publishing house. Developing his music with producers, producing music videos and promotional material, consistent touring and developing a fan base with out the backing of a big label are all part of his journey. Far from sounding or looking like a low budget project Kirton and his team have been able to pull together an award winning album, three top quality music videos and a Barrack Obama Time for Change Music video remix that rivals the quality and vision of any high budget project done today. His label Bird's Eye Music has distribution with Soul Kiss / Universal for Canada, Nova / Pinnacle for the UK and The Orchard for digital. With these bases covered Kirton is ready make his mark.

One of Kirton's strengths is breaking barriers and creating links between art, screen and music. His music and lyrics seems to be attracting well known creative persons and it is not uncommon to have actor Gary Dourdan (CSI), World champion surfer Kelly Slater (when he is in Barbados hiding out), Barbados's super models or a celebrated artist/ painter either on stage, playing guitar, singing or in a music video. In fact Dourdan, who looks like he could be Kirton's brother not only cameos in his music video but also drops a poetry rap on the Time for Change album. The big names surrounding this charismatic Independent songwriter are not only in front of the camera and mic but behind as well. Kirton scored big time by securing cinematographer / director Tom Krueger for his debut video 'Time for Change'. Kruger is a multiple Pulitzer and Sundance award winner who also headed the film crew for the 'U2 Live in 3D' as well as recent Bruce Springsteen, U2 and Bob Dylan music videos.

The press and industry discovered Kirton long before his mainstream bid. His press kit is one accolade after another, he was called 'best new act at Midem' by AP, played SXSW, won three Barbados Music Awards in 08 including song, video and Reggae artist of the year, a Barbados Cornerstone recipient, performed on Jay Leno's The Tonight Show, Semi Finalist ISC and was the first singer to ever perform at The RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London launching the Royal season for 2008.

David Kirton's music has forced us to reevaluate our stereotypes in regards to music and artists from the Caribbean. With his original, organic sound and energy he is moving forward in the main arena and will remind us to never judge an artist by his dreadlocks again.