Engineer and producer Rich Fingers discusses his transition from keys to console, his journey with Zimi Records, and his experiences working with artists and more
Navigating the transition from live music to studio production
In an era where the studio has become a more critical tool than live music, the combination of expertise in both areas proves to be a significant advantage. This knowledge has greatly benefited for studio engineer and producer Rich Fingers, known as Zimi Kemzy.
Rich Fingers has been in the industry for over a decade, serving as a keyboard player for many, including well-known names such as Tarrus Riley, Agent Sasco, Chris Martin, Ky-Mani Marley, and Beenie Man, showcasing his skills on stage in live performances. "I've been traveling the world. Africa multiple times, Europe. as well as America and the Caribbeans. The only continent I haven't been to is Asia," he notes.
However, he has always had a passion for dancehall, and in recent years, he has transitioned towards production. "It's a completely different game for me," Kemzy describes.
"It's a transition from being a musician to a producer over the past three years. It's been great so far," he expresses. "Being more in the studio, being on the streets, being a part of the culture more—it's such a great feeling."
Rich Fingers has been working with many dancehall artists, including Intence, Iwaata, Govana, and Byron Messia. He has produced hit tracks like "Monster" for Rajahwild and "Stranger to Happiness" with Byron Messia and Govana, and he contributed to the track "Forever" for Dexta Daps as well. "Monster is the biggest success for me within the dancehall circle," he said about the single, which has amassed 6.7 million views and millions of streams across major platforms.
Being more involved in the studio and on the streets, Rich Fingers feels more connected to the culture and the music scene. Since signing with the emerging label Zimi Records, doors have opened wide for him. Rich Fingers (born Kemoy Allen) produced two tracks on Bayka's debut mixtape "Mob Ties," including the title single for Universal Music.
"Grateful for being a part of Zimi Records and being around Franc White, Sean God, who have been in the producer game longer than me. Real good people around me," Kemzy reflects. "I work with TJ Records and Jordan from Chimney Records, people who help me understand the production and engineering sides. Fuze also makes It kinda feels seamless."
He admires how dancehall has heavily influenced reggaeton, afrobeats, and hip-hop. "My biggest influence is Sean Paul. I'm a big fan of international dancehall. I believe that dancehall is the biggest genre, and it puts Jamaica on the map," says Kemzy.
"Grateful for being a part of Zimi Records and being around Franc White, Sean God, who have been in the producer game longer than me. Real good people around me".
When he's in the studio, Rich Fingers always tries to incorporate what he's learned to produce hits. "I'm always in the studio, trying to be creative. Rajahwild and Najeerii are always around me. I've got projects with IWaata and Kraff, so maybe I'm going to drop a juggling by the end of the summer or before. The future is looking great for me," Kemzy states.
Rich Fingers, continues to evolve and make his mark in the music industry, blending his talents as a musician, producer, and engineer to create impactful and resonant music.
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