Carlton Nembhard, widely recognized by his stage name 10tik, entered the world on January 1st, 1994. Hailing from Kingston, specifically the Maxfield Park Road area, he spent his formative years there. In his youth, Nembhard relocated to the Mandeville parish, attending Mandeville Primary and Junior High School. Subsequently, he pursued his secondary education at DeCarteret College, a period during which he underwent significant personal development. Joining the cadet club at DeCarteret, he underwent grooming and intensive training, shaping the disciplined and militant persona he embodies today. Reflecting on this period, 10tik notes, “Being in the cadet club taught me that we create our limits in our mind. With enough determination, we can find an unknown power, and with teamwork, we can challenge any force in the way.” This experience played a pivotal role in his decision to pursue a career in music.
At the age of 18, 10tik returned to Kingston, residing near the challenging “Common Sense” community in Red Hills Road. During this period, he opted to join the Jamaica Fire Brigade, dedicating five years to serving as one of the station’s top firefighters. Notably, he played a courageous role in responding to the 2013 fire that devastated sections of the 303-room Wyndham hotel in New Kingston.
Post his firefighting career, 10tik redirected his focus toward realizing his aspirations as a recording artist. Initiating his music journey, he independently released tracks like “Lead Inna Head” and “She Don’t Mind” on his X3M Inc Productions label. Persistent efforts to establish himself in the industry led to subsequent releases, including “Gangsta” and “Soul of the City.” Although initially perceived as an underground sensation, 10tik’s breakthrough arrived in 2021 with the release of his hit single, “Roll Deep.”
Known for his introspective and honest approach, 10tik’s music mirrors his life experiences, addressing struggles, upbringing, and triumphs. With heartfelt hits like “Roll Deep,” he garnered praise from over sixteen million listeners. Continually pushing the boundaries of dancehall, 10tik’s music reflects the “Gwallaz” lifestyle—a combination of grit and introspection unique to him. Since February 2021, he has dropped tracks such as “One Team,” “Activ,” and “Zone,” solidifying his place as a significant voice in contemporary dancehall. 10tik remains committed to being an authentic voice for the youth, staying true to his roots and identity.
“At its core, it’s about individuals emerging from challenging circumstances, driven by a burning desire to alter their conditions. As a Gwalla, authenticity is crucial—being down-to-earth, spiritual, and appreciative of life’s simplicity. A rebel. A warrior of life.”
