-Ioctane-

Tell us a little about yourself. Who is I-Octane?.

I-Octane is a ‘cross the board’ artist who always tries to represent for the people. The name I-Octane stands for ‘High energy, high performance,’ and I always try to bring that to my music. I’m an energetic individual who is passionate about music, and I try to put a positive spin on things that will help people make it through the stress of life.

Your birth name, Byiome Muir, is rather different. What’s the origin, and is there a significant meaning behind it?

I’m told that the name Byiome is African, but I’ve never been able to find the actual meaning, so I put my own meaning to it. To me, the name Byiome stands for ‘Strength’ or ‘being strong.’

So, how and when did your love for music begin, and how did you get into the business?

I’ve always loved music. I grew up hearing a lot of different types of music, and my mother used to sell at some of the stage shows, so I was able to see different artists perform live. From I was very young I understood and appreciated the power of music. At first, I just used to mess around with music in school – deejaying and beating on the desk in the classroom. Eventually, a friend gave me a link to Donovan Germaine of Penthouse Records, and that is where I really began to get seriously involved in the business.

Who are some of your musical influences?

Well, I listen to a lot of different types of music, and I’m influenced in different ways by them all. From Bob Marley to Celine Dion, Sade, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Spragga Benz, Buju Banton, Sizzla Kalonji – the list goes on.

Reggae music can be a real multifaceted industry. How would you differentiate yourself from other reggae artists? 

To be honest, I just focus on being me and keeping my music authentic. There is only one I-Octane. I can’t be anyone else, so from I keep doing me and being true to myself and the talent that the Almighty has blessed me with, then I don’t have to worry about being different.

Your last album, “Crying To The Nation,” did exceptionally well. Is there a new album coming soon, and who are some of the producers and artists you worked with?

The new album is called ‘My Journey,’ and it is produced by DJ Frass. I don’t want to give too much away, but some of the artists on the album include Gentleman and Kymani Marley.

Any artist out there that you would like to work with in the future?

I’m open to working with any artist who is talented and focused and who has positive vibrations. I want to work with people who are serious about contributing to music. We’re not singing just because wi have melodies and lyrics – there’s more to it than that. Once someone is on the same page, I’m open to working with them.

Ioctane has become an international name. I see now that you have added entrepreneur to the list. You started a record label in 2011 called “Conquer the Globe.” How does it feel to have accomplished so much in just a couple of years of your career, and how receptive are your peers in regards to your new endeavor?

Well, I have to give all thanks and praise to Jah because all of my accomplishments are because of Him. It feels good to see what I’ve accomplished, and it really shows that ultimately, hard work will pay off. Big up to my entire team who helped me reach where I am. My peers have been receptive. Of course, with everything, you have positive and negative, but for the most part, I’ve gotten a good reception.

You have also established a clothing line. What is the name of your brand? Are you specializing in anything in particular? And where can we get your items to purchase?

We did what is called a capsule collection with Silver Factory Merchandise, which gave me the freedom to learn more about the business before I jump fully into it. You can check out the products from my collection at www.silverfactorymerch.com

I know that you recently became the brand ambassador for Busta soft drinks. How does being the brand ambassador help you connect with your fans?

I’ve been a Digicel brand Ambassador for about 4 years, so I’ve learned a lot about the role. I recently signed with Busta, and it is just another avenue to connect with my fans. For one, it gives us something outside of the music to have in common. Also, the company has different road shows and events, so I get the chance to meet fans in places that I don’t get to frequent.

Do you have any appearances or tours coming up soon? 

Yes, I have a European tour coming up shortly. You can keep tuned to my social media for more details.

There are a lot of impersonators out there. Can you let us know what your official Facebook/Twitter is? Instagram pages? 

Facebook: I-Octane

Twitter/Instagram: realioctane

Youtube: IOctaneTV

Anything that you would like to say to your fans reading this?

 Keep the Almighty first, never give up on yourself, and thanks for all the support. Mi love unnu.