Dwight Arrington Myers, better known as Heavy D, left an undeniable mark on hip-hop and R&B. Most people recognize him as the charismatic frontman of Heavy D & the Boyz, the smooth yet energetic rapper behind hits like “Now That We Found Love.” But what many don’t realize is that his Jamaican heritage played a huge role in shaping his music, personality, and life.
Born in Jamaica, Raised in Hip-Hop
Heavy D was born on May 24, 1967, in Mandeville, Jamaica—a fact that often gets overlooked. His family moved to Mount Vernon, New York, when he was young, but his Jamaican roots stayed with him. His parents, Eulahlee and Clifford Myers, instilled a strong sense of cultural pride in their children, and Heavy D carried that influence throughout his career. He never lost touch with his Caribbean identity, and it quietly but powerfully influenced his musical style.
The Family Connection to Jamaican Music
Most fans don’t know that Heavy D’s uncle, Richard Bryan, was a well-respected Jamaican musician. Bryan’s work in ska and reggae influenced Heavy D’s appreciation for the rhythms and cadences of Jamaican music. Though he made a name for himself in hip-hop, Heavy D’s cadence, flow, and rhythm often had a subtle reggae undertone—something that set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
Cooking, Patois, and Staying Close to His Roots
Heavy D wasn’t just connected to Jamaica through music—he embodied the culture in his everyday life. He was fluent in Jamaican Patois and often used it in interviews and casual conversations. He also loved Jamaican food, and those close to him knew he was particular about his curry goat, jerk chicken, and rice and peas. Even as a successful artist in the U.S., he frequently visited Jamaica and stayed connected to the island’s culture.
Giving Back to Jamaica
Despite his fame, Heavy D never forgot where he came from. He quietly contributed to charitable causes in Jamaica, especially those aimed at helping underprivileged youth. He also encouraged young Jamaican artists to break into the U.S. market, often giving advice and lending his influence behind the scenes.
A Legacy Rooted in Two Worlds
Heavy D’s music made people dance, but his life was a testament to staying true to one’s roots. While many saw him as just a fun-loving rapper, those who paid attention recognized the subtle but powerful ways he wove his Jamaican heritage into everything he did. His legacy isn’t just about hip-hop; it’s about a cultural bridge between Jamaica and the world.
A Dancehall Influence in Hip-Hop
Long before it was common to hear reggae and dancehall influences in hip-hop, Heavy D was mixing the two seamlessly. He wasn’t just dabbling in Jamaican sounds—he was authentically blending them into his music before artists like Sean Paul and Shaggy brought dancehall into the mainstream. Tracks like “Dem No Worry We,” a collaboration with reggae legend Super Cat, showcased Heavy D’s deep understanding of and love for his Jamaican roots. He didn’t just borrow from dancehall; he lived it.
Be sure to check out the highly rated: Heavy D & The Boyz 20th Century Masters: Millennium Collection on Amazon
