Kranium at Gramercy Theatre

Kemar Donaldson, popularly known as Kranium, represents modern dancehall and reggae. The Jamaican singer put stylish swag into the genres with witty wordplays on his lyrics and fizzy synths in his productions. Since 2013, he has been refining his sound, which always compels, especially in genres wherein artists must become powerhouses to be well-liked. His music's themes revolve around love, intimacy, and relationships, which are perfect for his style's overall feel.

Kranium grew up in Montego Bay, Jamaica. He had an early exposure to reggae, supported well by his family. His passion for the boppy music genre was solidified as he began working with his uncle, the reggae and dancehall legendary artist Screwdriver. When he moved to Miami, Florida, in 2005, his uncle introduced him to the workings of the industry, basically becoming his mentor. He relocated to New York City a year later to move closer to more music opportunities. Settling in Jamaica, Queens, he went on to work hard to sustain his career around the Big Apple.

After years of releasing singles, the favorite dancehall musician broke into the music scene with his song "Nobody Has to Know" in 2013. This song continues to do well today, recently receiving a silver certification in the United Kingdom. Also, this song reveals the ideal goal Kranium has for his music; this objective is to bring back Jamaican dancehall to mainstream international success. Many significant recording labels found his music appealing and his attitude attractive to listeners, which was why many of them courted him to join their labels. For the next two years, Atlantic Records was among the most eager labels that wanted him. Kranium would then sign with the record label.

With Atlantic Records, his debut album "Rumors" and sophomore "Midnight Sparks" brought back wider attention to the dancehall genre. In addition, he collaborated with many artists like Wizkid, Kyla, Ty Dolla $ign, Tina Savage, J Balvin, and many others. However, on March 2023, the great dancehall artist left the record label after eight years.

Kranium is on tour this year. If you are in New York City, catch his show at the Gramercy Theatre on Wednesday, June 14. Tickets are now on sale, and you can secure yours here by hitting the "Get Tickets" link.