By Curtis Campbell—–

Dancehall artist Gucci Flava is celebrating Child Month by dedicating his song Mi Love Mi Kids Dem to children worldwide. The father of four said the song is already inspiring fathers to show more respect for their offspring.

He hopes to spark a change in Caribbean men’s approach to fatherhood. “The words flowed so easy, because it’s my life. The process seemed supernatural and I believe that is why it’s already having a positive impact,” he said.

“I think I have motivated fathers to appreciate their kids more. And some man weh abuse kids fi know sey dat cyaan work and dem fi show the kids more love,” he said.

Gucci Flava said since the song’s release on local media outlets, several persons have given him positive feedback. His manager, Jahema Myers, added that convenor of Hear the Children’s Cry, Betty-Ann Blaine, has been impressed with the song’s message and contacted Gucci Flava.

However, the deejay said persons should not jump into motherhood or fatherhood without putting measures in place to finance the development of their children. He believes children should not be forced to live in unsuitable conditions because of their parents’ financialinstability.

“From you are of the right age and you are ready for a child, just know that there are changes in your life that you will be required to accommodate, because you must set a foundation for your youths,” he said.

CONCERNED

Among other issues, the deejay says he is concerned about the large number of apparently homeless children around the Corporate Area.

In the late 1990s, Grammy Award-winning reggae artist Buju Banton also spoke to fatherhood, through his effort on the Joyride rhythm entitled, How it Ago Go. The song denounced child molestation and encouraged persons with information about this to break the silence and help bring the culprits to justice.

Between January 2011 and April 2012, 2,796 children were reported missing in Jamaica. More than 300 have not been found.

Gucci Flava is planning to release more inspirational music, such as his upcoming collaboration with Charlene Skylar entitled Stay Inna Yu Lane. It is A song which encourages people to live within their means.

“My type of music is to inspire people. I want to send messages and, even if am doing a song about women, it’s giving general respect to them,” Gucci Flava said.