Mavado, aka Real McKoy, stamped an indelible mark on the dancehall scene since his hit single, also called Real McKoy, took off. Recorded on Daseca's hugely popular Anger Management riddim, Real McKoy hit it big last year and launched the career of dancehall's Gangsta fi Life singer. Born David Constantine Brooks at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital, Mavado has lived in the ghetto all his life. Growing up in Cassava Piece was never easy for Mavado or his family, with his grandmother often playing the maternal role. ...show more

Mavado, aka Real McKoy, stamped an indelible mark on the dancehall scene since his hit single, also called Real McKoy, took off. Recorded on Daseca's hugely popular Anger Management riddim, Real McKoy hit it big last year and launched the career of dancehall's Gangsta fi Life singer. Born David Constantine Brooks at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital, Mavado has lived in the ghetto all his life. Growing up in Cassava Piece was never easy for Mavado or his family, with his grandmother often playing the maternal role.

It was in the church that Mavado was first given a microphone to sing by his granny at age four. From then, Mavado was a permanent fixture at every church function and rally. He attended Charlie Smith High School in Arnett Gardens, from where his father hailed. As the teacher left the room, the desk top would be beaten and Mavado would deejay the lyrics of Cutty Ranks and Bounty Killer.

Upon leaving school, Mavado found work at a liquor store, but lasted just one day as he always knew music would provide for him. DEVELOPMENT Close friend Flex, recognising Mavado's singing ability and unique way of composing lyrics, encouraged Mavado to visit recording studios in Kingston. Flex used to ride from Grants Pen and pick up Mavado on his bicycle every morning and on to Junior Reid's studio, which at the time was a haunt of Bounty Killer who quickly recognised Mavado's talent. Unfortunately, issues in the community meant Mavado couldn't leave home as often as he once did, and the link weakened. ...show less