Jeffrey Campbell, popularly known as Assassin or Agent Sasco, has become known as a great lyricist and songwriter.
The artiste, who is also a producer, and co-founder of Boardhouse Records, was named Assassin by classmates for his quick-witted lyrics and sharp shooting delivery, a talent recognised before age four.
Jeffrey has always carried with him this impressive ability. In the latter portion of his high-school years, he got his intro to the music industry when Spragga Benz recorded a song penned by them. Having a seasoned mentor and the drive, the young talent quickly escalated his efforts and by age 19, he had three number one hits in that same year.
Campbell grew up between Kintyre, St Andrew, with his mother, and St Catherine with his father. With humble beginnings, Jeffrey learned that the value of a fulfilled life is not measured by monetary possessions, but by the importance of personal output for good.
His mother, a strong Christian woman, and father, an ex -military officer, instilled a mindset of integrity, and emphasised the importance of education. Having this strong foundation has been an influence in the art and life of Assassin.
Fuelled by both purpose and passion, music comes naturally for the artiste. It is in his DNA to be a musician, and in his upbringing to succeed at everything he attempts. The day he discovered the most basic formula in music, the four-count bar, was the day he learned how to creatively infuse his lyrics into each song.
In addition, he continued his education in business management from University of Sunderland, adding to his skill sets of being a well-rounded professional artiste.
Signed to VP records in 2004, the deejay released two albums for the label, his debut album, Infiltration (2005), and a celebration of ghetto life, Gully Sit'in (2007), both of which were acclaimed by fans.
The year 2005 was a checkered year for the artiste, he released his first album, became a father and suffered the loss of his mother. Assassin took the experiences and directed his energy, motivating himself to strive and refresh his overall persona. The following year a name adaptation came into play, Agent 006 (2006), borrowed from a theme playing off James Bond. The agent theme eventually evolved into Agent Sasco, when close friends started calling him Sasco, a derivative of Assassin.
His discography over the past decade includes two full albums, and over 300 singles. He has performed solo shows and major festivals all over the globe. He has worked with major trendsetters in reggae music including, Shaggy, Marcia Griffiths, Beres Hammond, Spragga Benz, Sean Paul, Josie Wales, Bounty Killer, Maxi Priest, Buju Banton and many others.
In 2013, American hip-hop artiste Kanye West recognised Assassin's lyrical dexterity and selected his verse for the song I'm In It, on the Yeezus album. This opportunity has expanded his visibility and opened doors across genres. Since then his lyrics have contributed to additional hip-hop artistes, songs, having worked with Jerry Wonda, Raekwon, Melanie Fiona, Kardinal Offishall, Lil Jon and others that are currently under way. His interest in crossing genres is part of his musical experience, yet he remains true to the essence of his craft, which is dancehall.
Assassin is currently working on his third album, expected to be released in 2015. He is expected to deliver an amazing set at the Arthur Guinness Day concert today.
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