About DJ Lantan

Lantan's Journey: From Freestyle Rapper To Professional International Artiste

Mark Smith, (Stage Name) Lantan or Dj Lantan, grew up in Kingston and St Andrew, Jamaica where he was immersed in music from an early age. He spent time perfecting his own style by entering open mic competitions for cash prizes. These were raw and fiercely competitive events featuring freestyle and counteraction rap. As a result, Lantan's learning process was steep.

His growing reputation started opening doors, attracting renowned DJs to cut his first dub plates. Some of these recording sessions took place at JARO studio alongside Ninja ford and Predator. As a young teenager, Dj Lantan previously honed his skills at "Sugar Minott" Youth man promotions studio in Kingston, and king Jammy's studio. Lantan's main influences come from his environment and life experiences. Some of his favorite artists growing up included Bob Marley, Shabba Ranks and Cutty ranks.

Over the years, Lantan has gained considerable experience, releasing several records with three achieving top ten status and a peak position of #4 on the Apples iTunes Rap charts. He has performed in the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Japan. Additionally, he has collaborated with artists such as Vybz Kartel, General Levy, TopCat, Wayne Marshal, Nitty Kutchie, Tenza, and Mc Troublesome. His production partnerships include notable names such as Stevie V, Good 2 Bad & Hugly, R.S.R.S, LPOJ, JBMixx, WorldBeat Music, Koogah, Maccabees, One Harmony Music, Smokeshop, Rebel Sonix, Priest J, T.M.D, Totally Dubwise, DeJdi, Frisk & Solstice, House Of Elements, Top Of The Hill Music Group, Tumble Dung Music, among others.

Lantan's music has been featured in films like "Extortion" starring Danny Glover and Elon Bailey and major television shows in the United States, including on TNT's Rizzoli and Isles and NBC Universal's E Channel. Lantan has also appeared on a British television show hosted by Fearne Cotton alongside Jamie Cullum, Sharleen Spiteri and Dizzee Rascal, bringing him notable publicity.