Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Novel-T. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Novel-T, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on so far is my recently released album Survivor. It’s a collection of 11 songs that blend messages of empowerment, resilience, and love—brought to life through a mix of original material and reimagined covers. I wrote or co-wrote several of the tracks, pulling not only from my own journey, but also from the strength I’ve witnessed in others navigating life’s challenges. I also included a few cover songs that have inspired me over the years, including “Gotta Be Bad”—a bold, soulful reworking of Des’ree’s empowering anthem.

The heart of the album is the title track, “Survivor.” It’s deeply personal—rooted in a chapter of my life where I literally beat the odds during a serious medical situation. While I don’t go into all the details in the song, the message is clear: I made it through, and so can you. In the chorus, I sing: “I’m a survivor, oh yes I’ve been through it, a survivor, yes, you can do it”—a line that embodies both the fight and the hope that shaped this project from the beginning.

Another track that’s especially close to me is “Tough Like a Diamond,” which captures that same spirit of inner strength. The hook—“Tough like a diamond, strong like titanium, knock me down but I won’t stay down”—has become something of an anthem for anyone who’s ever had to pick themselves up after being counted out.

Survivor is more than an album—it’s a piece of my story, and a message to others that no matter what you’re facing, there’s always a way forward. The most meaningful part has been hearing from listeners who feel seen and empowered by the music. That connection is why I do what I do.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

For those who may be meeting me for the first time—my name is Novel-T. I’m a singer, songwriter, recording artist, and producer whose musical path started in Jamaica in the early ’90s and has since grown into an international career centered on creating music that uplifts, empowers, and connects.

My entry into the music world began with live performances and voiceover work for major radio jingles in Jamaica, for companies like IRIE FM, F.A.M.E FM, Singer Sewing Machines, and Mother’s Patties. After migrating to the U.S. in the mid-90s, I continued performing across the country, eventually becoming lead vocalist for various bands. Over time, I carved out my space in the reggae, lovers rock, and soul-influenced genres, while also collaborating with—and learning from—some of the greats in the industry.

Today, I’m proud to offer not just performances, but original music that speaks to real-life emotions and experiences. I’ve written or co-written many of my songs, and also produced and arranged both original pieces and reimagined covers that honor the legacy of timeless classics while bringing them into a fresh light. Whether through recording, live shows, or collaborations, I aim to create music that resonates with people—songs that uplift, inspire, and sometimes simply offer a moment of peace or joy.

What sets me apart is the heart behind the music. My latest album Survivor—which recently hit #1 on both the South Florida Reggae Album Chart and Jamaica’s revered Jamaica Music Countdown – Top 10 Album Chart for several weeks—is a great example of that. The album includes 11 tracks that blend original songs and personal anthems like “Survivor” and “Tough Like a Diamond”, as well as reimagined covers like “Gotta Be Bad” (originally by Des’ree). Survivor is especially meaningful because it tells my own story—overcoming adversity, including a medical challenge I survived against the odds—and offers encouragement for others to keep pushing forward.

One of the lines from the title track sums it up best: “I’m a survivor, oh yes I’ve been through it, a survivor, yes, you can do it.” That’s the essence of what I hope to give through my work: strength, encouragement, and connection.

Over the years, I’ve been blessed with chart-topping singles in the U.S. and U.K.; collaborated and/or shared the stage with musical legends, like Hopeton Lindo, Marcia Griffiths, Ken Booth, Bob Andy, Third World, Calton Coffie (formerly of
Inner Circle), Freddie McGregor, and received accolades including being named the #1 Female Singer of the year multiple times by the Foundation Radio Network. But beyond awards or chart positions, what I’m most proud of is creating music that moves people—whether through love songs, empowerment anthems, or soul-stirring ballads.

For fans, followers, and clients, I want you to know that my music is a reflection of my journey, my passion, and my purpose. It’s available on all digital platforms and at www.noveltmusic.com. If you’re looking for music that’s soulful, intentional, and made with heart—I’m here, and this is what I love to do.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the connection. There’s nothing quite like knowing that something I wrote or performed has touched someone deeply—whether it empowered them, brought comfort, or simply made them feel seen. Music has always been a healing force in my own life, so being able to create songs that pour strength, love, or encouragement into someone else’s world is a true blessing. I especially love hearing from listeners who say, “That song got me through a hard time,” or “I felt like you were telling my story.” That kind of impact is what fuels me to keep creating—not just for entertainment, but to uplift and inspire.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I believe society can best support artists and creatives by truly valuing the role art plays in our lives—not just as entertainment, but as a powerful force for healing, education, and connection. That starts with creating more opportunities: funding for creative projects, accessible platforms to showcase our work, and policies that protect the rights and livelihoods of independent artists. It also means cultivating spaces—both physical and digital—where diverse voices and stories are welcomed and celebrated, not just the mainstream.

Support also looks like showing up: buying the music, sharing the art, attending the shows, and engaging with creatives in meaningful ways. When people support artists directly, it fuels a cycle that allows more authentic, heartfelt, and transformative work to be created. A thriving creative ecosystem uplifts not just the artist, but the entire community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.musicbynovelt.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noveltfellows/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicbynovel.t/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicbynovelt
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MusicByNovelT
• Other: https://novel-t.hearnow.com/

  https://www.reverbnation.com/musicbynovelt

Image Credits

APTDesign Studio

Howard Ricketts