ASSERTIVE, meticulous and innovative are just some of the words that singjay Brain Damage uses to describe himself.

The artiste, born Anathaneil Walters, is best known for singles such as Hustler, a collaboration done with Mr Lexx; Hot, done with GWhizz; I have A Dream, Save Me, We See Dem and Straight from the Ghetto. A former car salesman, Damage tells the Observer in a recent interview that he knew that he had a passion for the arts, as from as early as age four his family and friends would be his audience while he practiced his lyrics and did rendition of other artistes' songs. His stage name, he says, was inspired by one of his mother's usual quotes.

 "At times when I would get mischievous as a child she would often ask me if something was wrong with my head, hence came the name Brain Damage," the well- spoken artiste shares.

A past student of Tivoli Gardens High School, Brain Damage released his debut single almost a decade ago entitled Lough Wi No. The single, he says, did not receive much airplay, but that did not deter him from following his first love -- music. I'm Not crazy and God Bless Wi were singles that would follow next.

"The lyrics that I penned and recorded give every listener something to think about. It's not dull and dry ...it's more like food for thought, and that should be the ultimate goal of every artiste. My aim is to break down musical barriers whilst being a good role model for all," says the Kingston-born artiste.

His inspiration, he says, comes from happenings in the garrison areas of Kingston -- in one of which he resides -- but was quick to point out that he is also inspired by the likes of Bob Marley, Bounty Killa, Sizzla Kalongi, Beenie Man and Marcus Garvey.

Other than performing at local shows such as Follow the Arrow and Curryfest, Brain Damage has also toured sections of Canada, the United States and the Caribbean.

With a mix tape in the making and several upcoming tours, Brain Damage says he has the highest hope of becoming the next artiste to cross over and truly make his name in the dancehall.