10Tik

Carlton Nembhard, professionally known as 10tik, was born on January 1, 1994, in Kingston’s Maxfield Park Road area. During his childhood, he relocated to Mandeville, where he attended Mandeville Primary and Junior High School, later completing his secondary education at DeCarteret College. At DeCarteret, he underwent significant personal development, particularly through his involvement in the cadet club. The club’s rigorous training and discipline shaped his resilient, determined persona. Reflecting on this period, 10tik noted, “The cadet club showed me that our limits are mental. With determination and teamwork, we can tap into hidden strength and overcome any obstacle.” This experience inspired his pursuit of a music career.

At 18, 10tik returned to Kingston, settling near the tough “Common Sense” neighborhood on Red Hills Road. He joined the Jamaica Fire Brigade, serving five years as a standout firefighter. Notably, he played a heroic role during the 2013 fire that damaged parts of the 303-room Wyndham hotel in New Kingston.

After leaving the fire brigade, 10tik dedicated himself to his music ambitions. He independently released songs like “Lead Inna Head” and “She Don’t Mind” under his X3M Inc Productions label. His persistence led to further releases, including “Gangsta” and “Soul of the City.” Initially an underground artist, 10tik achieved mainstream success in 2021 with his hit “Roll Deep.”

Renowned for his raw, reflective lyricism, 10tik’s music draws from his life’s challenges, upbringing, and triumphs. His breakout track “Roll Deep” resonated with over sixteen million listeners, earning widespread acclaim. Embodying the “Gwallaz” lifestyle—a mix of grit and introspection—10tik continues to innovate within dancehall. Since February 2021, he has dropped tracks like “One Team,” “Activ,” and “Zone,” cementing his influence in modern dancehall. Committed to authenticity, 10tik remains a powerful voice for youth, staying grounded in his roots.

He describes the Gwallaz ethos: “It’s about rising from hardship with a fierce drive to transform your life. A Gwalla is real, spiritual, and values life’s simple moments—a rebel and a warrior.”