Originating from Cockburn Pen, a vibrant community nestled in Kingston, Jamaica, Fire Oniel is a veteran selector with a remarkable three-decade journey in the industry. His musical odyssey ignited in 1992 when a close friend introduced him to the captivating world of music, emanating from the UK Disco scene in Cockburn Pen. Oniel’s signature ‘Mr. Argument’ dancehall style has earned him acclaim, igniting a frenzy among the ladies during his segments. Notably, his peak was achieved while deejaying in Jamaica on Stereo Passion Sound, where he collaborated with Bezrock & Leggo Bling during the iconic Passion Sundays era in Half Way Tree.Demonstrating his savvy nature, Oniel consistently propelled his career forward by collaborating closely with esteemed international artists. Notable collaborations include the likes of Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Mavado, Vybz Kartel, and Damian Marley, a testament to his versatile and far-reaching influence in the music industry. Oniel’s mastery in deejaying positioned him as a prominent figure in numerous dancehall events, including esteemed gatherings like Fancy Thursdays, Look Out Tuesdays alongside Junior Reid, and both the British Linkup in Jamaica and New Jersey Linkup. His unwavering dedication to the art of music did not go unnoticed, earning him consecutive Sound of the Year awards in England for the years 2001 and 2002. A proficient stalwart in the dancehall milieu, Oniel’s expertise shines through collaborations with foundational sounds like Stonelove and Kilamanjaro, alongside Jeremy Lee. His collaborative ventures extend to luminaries such as Firelinks, Tony Matterhorn, Foota Hype, and Boom Boom, among others, showcasing his dynamic and well-established presence within the dancehall community.Following his migration to the U.S. in 2011, Fire Oniel became a member of Earthquake Sound in Washington, DC, infusing a distinctive spark into the sound. His exceptional skillset was promptly acknowledged, propelling him to secure a coveted position on yearly events hosted by renowned promoters in the DMV region.Fire Oniel traverses a diverse array of styles and genres, all while centering on the back-to-basics ethos and foundational elements. A key objective driving his musical journey is to restore dancehall to its roots, harking back to a time of genuine essence, and to alleviate the prevalence of the contemporary top 10 approach in music selection that has emerged in recent times.With a magnetic connection to the beats and an innate ability to read the crowd’s pulse, Fire Oniel transforms every performance into an electrifying experience. His skillful transitions effortlessly bridge eras and genres, invoking nostalgia while introducing fresh sounds. A true musical storyteller, Fire Oniel weaves a captivating narrative through his sets, inviting listeners to journey through a tapestry of emotions. Whether he’s orchestrating an intimate vibe or igniting a dancefloor frenzy, Fire Oniel’s intuitive approach to music curation ensures that each moment is a harmonious blend of rhythm and connection. As he takes command of the decks, his passion resonates, making his sets not just a performance, but a transformative encounter with the soul of sound.As Fire Oniel forges ahead in the realm of music, his forward-looking perspective shines as brightly as his engagements at events, as he holds the belief that selectors should not merely play music, but put on captivating performances for the audience. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity and a steadfast dedication to his craft, he aspires to elevate dancehall to new heights while preserving its cherished roots. With every spin of the turntable, Fire Oniel strives to evoke a sense of unity, nostalgia, and pure joy among listeners.With boundless potential stretching across the skyline, he looks forward to crafting more musical memories, breaking boundaries, and leaving an indelible mark on the evolving tapestry of sound. Fire Oniel’s journey is far from its final note; it’s a melody of passion, innovation, and a profound connection with the art of music that is destined to resonate for years to come. Stay tuned for upcoming ventures from this versatile selector, as more exciting projects are on the horizon. Rest assured, his enduring presence in the industry is far from over. As his journey evolves, new chapters await.
