Born Kamar Bromfield in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, Jamaica, DJ Kamar’s musical journey began at the tender age of 13. Driven by an early fascination with the piano, Kamar sought out opportunities to hone his craft wherever instruments were accessible. His parents’ active involvement in their local church created the perfect environment for him to practice and grow. Guided by lessons from a retired music teacher, Kamar’s natural talent quickly blossomed, leading to performances at concerts, weddings, and other events.
For Kamar, learning to play the piano was a spark that ignited his passion for creating and composing music. His older brother, DJ Sniper, a well-established DJ, introduced him to the club scene after their family migrated to the UK in the early 2000s. Spending time in that environment, combined with his innate sense of performance, inspired Kamar to become a DJ. While continuing to play sessional keyboards for international acts, he built a dedicated fanbase as a multifaceted artist.
Migration to the UK proved to be a turning point. Exposure to diverse musical styles and a broader range of opportunities helped Kamar evolve as a recording artist and producer. “I learned what Europe wanted to consume from Jamaica, and that insight paved the way for success in beat-making,” he says. Supporting touring Caribbean artists also provided invaluable experience and widened his network in the industry.
Despite detours into the military and finance, Kamar’s commitment to music remained unwavering. “While serving in the British Army, music became secondary due to the demands of active service, but I always travelled with a keyboard,” he recalls. Working in finance taught him the fiscal discipline and business acumen necessary for navigating the music industry.
In 2015, Kamar’s first single, a collaboration with Swiss producer Johnny Roxx and Atlanta-based vocalist Kenne Blessin, charted in Switzerland. The recognition opened doors for performances in Houston and Atlanta, solidifying his reputation as an artist with international appeal. “It was great to be recognized by the international community for an original piece of music,” he reflects.
Kamar’s signature style blends traditional dancehall rhythms with soulful chord progressions, a sound shaped by his love of 80s slow jams, country music, and gospel. “I started using dancehall drum patterns and adding my own international flavour, which was unique,” he explains. This distinctive approach continues to captivate fans worldwide.
His highly anticipated debut EP, Tun UP, showcases this innovation. The title track, featuring reggae icon Wayne Wonder, is already making waves in the Caribbean, Japan, and the UK. For Kamar, working with Wonder was a dream fulfilled. “Wayne is one of my favourite artists. The opportunity came from a great place, and the result was pure magic,” he shares. “His work ethic, vocals, and energy taught me so much.”
Performing at Reggae LAND, the UK’s largest reggae festival, was another career milestone. Although his performance was brief, Kamar describes the experience as unforgettable. “It was my first time performing for over 10,000 people. My fanbase has grown significantly since then,” he says.
As he prepares for the release of new singles, Whine & Brace and Champion in the Sky, Kamar is focused on expanding his global reach. Whine & Brace fuses African and Jamaican influences, creating a melody designed to transcend borders. Meanwhile, Champion in the Sky is a heartfelt tribute to the musicians who inspired his journey.
Navigating the challenge of appealing to diverse audiences, Kamar relies on advice passed down from industry veterans. “Wayne Wonder once told me, ‘Beres Hammond always said just sing nice music.’ That’s the mission,” he says confidently.
Looking ahead, Kamar aspires to create a timeless catalogue of hits that restore the greatness of dancehall and reggae. “Music isn’t work for me; it’s a way of life. I want to create songs that make people feel good and help them unwind,” he concludes. As DJ Kamar continues his rise in the music industry, his authenticity and passion promise to leave an indelible mark on the global stage.
