In 2000, amidst the buzzing atmosphere of Penthouse Studios at 56 Slipe Road, Demo Delgado penned and recorded one of his most heartfelt songs, "Never Stop Cry." Co-written with George "Tweety" Tate and produced by the legendary Donovan Germain, the song emerged during a tumultuous time in Delgado’s life—a period marked by personal struggles, industry challenges, and unrelenting hope.
At the time, Penthouse was evolving. Buju Banton had launched his Gargamel Music label, Wayne Wonder had relocated to the United States, and Beres Hammond had his Harmony House studio. Demo Delgado found himself among a new wave of artists like Zumjay, Assassin, Daville, and Jahmel, navigating the high expectations and competitive nature of the music industry. Germain, along with Lenky Marsden, Dean Frazer, Steely & Clevie, was focused on crafting hits that echoed the golden era of reggae and dancehall, striving to recreate the magic of the 90s.
The "Tonight Riddim," originally inspired by the classic Keith and Tex track, became the foundation for "Never Stop Cry." It was Wayne Wonder who first introduced Demo to Penthouse, believing in his potential to be a standout voice. However, things weren’t always smooth. Demo often faced comparisons to Buju Banton due to their vocal similarities, which sparked tension with some producers, including Dave Kelly. Rookie, a protégé of Kelly, even started a minor feud over this, but Demo, with his calm and humble demeanor, persevered. Buju Banton himself, though initially wary, eventually crossed paths with Demo at Penthouse, and their first meeting carried an air of guarded respect.
The inspiration for "Never Stop Cry" came from deeply personal circumstances. At the time, Demo's girlfriend, Keisha, was pregnant with their daughter, Sade. Life was difficult—chasing a music career, trying to support a growing family, and struggling financially. One night, while recording the song, Keisha called the studio crying, in pain and in need of medicine. Demo, desperate to help, borrowed a bicycle and rode through a rainy storm to her side. Along the way, he fell into a puddle, soaking himself but still determined to reach her. Later, he would joke that the song was somehow prophetic, symbolizing the struggles he was enduring to make it in music.
When "Never Stop Cry" was released on vinyl in 2000, Germain informed Demo that it was gaining traction in France. Despite its international appeal, the song received little promotion in Jamaica. Keisha, who worked pressing records at Germain’s plant, often told Demo, “I press up so much of your music,” but Demo rarely saw financial returns from his work. The song, however, took on a life of its own, resonating deeply with listeners in Europe and the United States, where it found an audience organically.
In 2002, Demo Delgado migrated to the United States, leaving behind the tumult of Jamaica’s music industry for a new chapter. While many remember Demo as an “old-school” artist, his talent remains undeniable. Now at 45, he’s a proud grandfather, still capable of captivating anyone with his voice and guitar. Though he has chosen a quieter life away from the spotlight, his legacy lives on in songs like "Never Stop Cry," a timeless piece born from real-life struggles, love, and the unyielding pursuit of a dream.
The story of "Never Stop Cry" continues, not just as a reflection of Demo Delgado’s journey, but as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of music to transcend time and borders.
Demo Delgado’s Independent CD: Raw and Real for the Fans
Demo Delgado is taking it back to basics with his independent CD, showcasing the grind and hustle that many artists face in today’s music industry. While the packaging might not look as polished—just printed or bootlegged for affordability—it’s the music inside that truly matters. Streaming services like Spotify pay next to nothing, and professional CD printing can be too expensive for independent artists.
Jack It Up One More Time is a timeless album featuring a blend of heartfelt reggae and smooth dancehall vibes. It includes the emotional track "Never Stop Cry," showcasing deep storytelling and raw emotion. Fans will love "Baby I Need You," a soulful collaboration with the iconic Wayne Wonder, blending smooth vocals and memorable melodies. Another standout is "I Was Told," a moving duet with the legendary Sanchez, combining heartfelt lyrics and a classic reggae sound. This album captures the essence of love, struggle, and resilience, making it a must-have for any reggae enthusiast.
What you get with this CD is pure, unfiltered quality music straight from Demo Delgado’s heart. Each CD is available for purchase, and to make it extra special, you can even get it personally autographed by Demo himself. This isn’t just about music; it’s about supporting independent artistry and owning a piece of authentic reggae and dancehall culture. Grab your copy today and show your love for raw, real talent!
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