Exclusive Interview with Major Mackerel

In this exclusive interview, Major Mackerel extended warm greetings and blessings to the staff and team for honoring him with this opportunity. He expressed enormous appreciation for his community and the many artists who have walked alongside him.

“My name is Garfield Dixon, though the world knows me as Major Mackerel,” he began. “Born a Christmas baby in 1967, I come from a time when reggae was pure fire in the belly and the soul of the people."

From the 1970s, two towering influences in his community Sister Nancy and her brother Brigadier Gerry stepped forward to carry this music beyond borders. As siblings and cultural icons, their example lit the path for him to follow.

“My favorite suggestion to the audience is: listen to the track ‘Nuh Run Down Man.’”

Major Mackerel can attest that he has seen this game change over the years. “Too much fighting, too many guns, too much distraction from the history and the true power of reggae,” he reflected. “Back then, to get studio time, you had to be certified basically, tested and proven.”

The conversation we had was more than music it was a movement, a lesson in history every time.

He shared his inspirations, a constellation of greats: Capleton, Tyga, Nitty Gritty, Duane Stephenson, Donny Dread, Sizzle, Kalonji. All of them from the same community, all rising up to spread the word.

He is from Poppy, Jamaica, where the red poppy has always stood for remembrance and hope a symbol that we can honor the past while building a peaceful future.

“Just like that poppy,” he shared, “I stand as a sign that you can overcome hardship and keep moving.”

He stands like the poppy rooted in memory, rising with resilience.

Outside the studio, Major Mackerel spoke of his passions: “In my spare time, I have a love for horse racing.” When asked if he was a jockey or a spectator, he said, “I own horses and race them.” And yes, he loves football proper football, soccer, the one you kick with your foot, not American football.

He shared that he can’t play anymore because he is now an amputee. Yet he remains grateful. Big up to Major Mackerel he gives thanks for every blessing and every struggle.

Since 1978, Major Mackerel has been in the game, creating and founding an original style that inspired countless artistes. His signature sound mi mi Mi bi bum mmmmmmmm comes with a squeak and a growl. The world loves this style, the way it makes you laugh, the way it lifts you up when you feel down.

“I always tell artists: keep going. Don’t give up on your hopes and dreams.”

He reminisced about Macka Diamond, who used to be Lady Mackerel, following his style. “She changed her name, found her own path, but she’s the only artiste I know who carried forward something similar to what I began.”

Off stage, Major Mackerel is also a proud father of five boys all living in the United States. Two of his sons have inherited the musical flame and are pursuing careers as rappers. With a heart full of support and a voice of experience, he said, “I encourage them through every step, and with each bone in my body I let them know—keep going and don’t quit.”

His most recent performance was in the parish of St. Thomas, Jamaica, where he took the stage at Rico Banton’s birthday bash—bringing the same energy and authenticity that have defined his decades-long career.

And Major Mackerel shows no signs of slowing down. His 2 new releases are titled "Numba 1" and "Different" out on all platforms.Major Mackeral recently announced exciting news about CEO O’Neil Famous and Music Town Entertainment. Mackerel now co-hosts live every Thursday alongside the legendary Peter Metro, bringing their unmatched vibes, storytelling, and cultural commentary to fans weekly.

While speaking with Major Mackerel, I discovered that he is truly the biggest fish in the sea. His style inspired names like Major Sardine, Major Herring, Captain Fish, Doctor Shark—so many names, so many waves of influence.

From the roots of reggae to the stages of Japan, from the horse tracks to the dancehall, from fatherhood to hosting, Major Mackerel stands here still—like the poppy—unshaken, unforgettable, and blooming with purpose.

Written by

Crispy Christey