Gyptian: "I Don't Think, I Know — This Is the Same Gyptian, the Real Deal"

Jamaican reggae artist Gyptian sat down with Premier Guide Miami's Daedrian McNaughton to talk about "Hold You" — the track originally produced in 2009 that became the summer anthem of 2010. Premier Guide Miami sat down to find out what that means — and what comes next.

"Girl me just want to hold you put me arms right around you, girl you give me the tightest hold me ever get in my life." A track that was literally forgotten a year ago suddenly gained digital life and became the summer's anthem.

"Hold You" is the newest album and hottest track from upcoming Jamaican reggae artist Windel Beneto Edwardo, known as Gyptian. Originally produced in 2009, it did not receive international airplay until early 2010. With steady play on all major radio stations, interviews with notable publications, and a worldwide tour, Gyptian and "Hold You" were not without controversy — but he has no intention of stopping now.

PGM: I noticed you were added to the Nas/Damian Marley "Distant Relatives" Tour. How do you feel about this move?

Gyptian: It's an awesome look; it's real. At first it wasn't like that and now it is. Give thanks.

PGM: "Hold You" has been very controversial in the Jamaican community. How did you deal with it?

Gyptian: To be frank, it wasn't a bother. I am a real hardcore Jamaican. The pressure that was applied only made me stronger. When people talk about the song, I have to keep the momentum to have them continue to talk about it. The controversy is what sells it.

PGM: You confirmed the song has double meanings. Please explain.

Gyptian: Hold You is a whole different concept and sex and controversy sell. It is all about "Hold You." It is the individual's opinion to put the song in whatever context or format they want. It is all about "Hold You" not "Hole You." I have no problems with the song. It is for the listener to listen carefully before passing judgment. It is all about having fun with music you can listen to over and over again.

PGM: You have done remixes with Nicki Minaj and others. Are you working with anyone new?

Gyptian: I am taking my music to the maximum level. When it bowls down, you will get another Gyptian; for now it's "Hold You." Don't fret, I am not a one-hit wonder. I don't even try to make hits, I just do music.

PGM: Do you think you will have another hit as big as this one?

Gyptian: I don't think, I know. I am not the artist that does music for a hit. This is my first real crossover music. I have been here for six years — this is the same Gyptian, the real deal.

PGM: You started out as the poor people's ambassador...

Gyptian: I am still that person. When "Hold You" makes the money, the poor people still benefit from it. This is simply to show that I am versatile. It is all about versatility.

PGM: Do you consider yourself a Rastafarian?

Gyptian: I was born a Rasta, it is not a consideration. I did not find Rasta — that was my destiny. Criticism will never get the better of Gyptian.

PGM: How do you feel now that your music is recognized internationally?

Gyptian: I am fortunate, blessed, and I have talent. I am not the artist who goes on stage and mimes — I do live music. I enjoy doing it; it is like a sport, my hobby, my everything.

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