Joel Valenski, born Joel Dudhnath, is a multi-talented artist hailing from Mon Repos on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).
Joel Valenski: A Rising Star from Mon Repos
At just 21 years old, Joel has already made significant strides in both the music and modelling industries. With a rich background and a relentless drive to succeed, he is quickly becoming a name to watch in the entertainment world.
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
“I grew up in Mon Repos,” Joel shares, reminiscing about his roots. His educational journey took him from Mon Repos Primary to Annandale Secondary and later to Case Western University.
Despite facing challenges in high school, Joel found solace in music. “Growing up for me was quite interesting,” he laughs. “I had a hard time in high school, so music was always my comfort.”
This 21-year-old’s fascination with music began early. He recalls, “I’ve always been an inquisitive kid, especially when it came to anything music or aviation-related. I found the drums interesting; I was always beating pots and pans every chance I got. I eventually taught myself to drum and started playing in church, where I still play to this day.”
DISCOVERING A VOICE
Despite his early love for music, Joel didn’t initially realise his potential as a singer. “Ironically enough, I didn’t know I could sing. My first instrument was a drum. Two classmates discovered I could sing back in form two,” he recalls with a smile.
Since then, Joel has been singing professionally for about four years, describing it as a dream come true. “I never thought that it could’ve been done, but God has been good.”
Joel’s breakthrough came with his participation in the Guyana Talent Search.
“It was when I discovered the Guyana Talent Search Talent Call that my life changed forever,” he says. Winning the competition propelled him into the spotlight, and he began writing songs a year later.
“I started writing songs after an incident related to songwriting. I look at it as a lesson learned, and due to that, I pushed myself and started writing music. I truly enjoy it; it’s poetry, and it gives me the chance to truly express myself.”
MUSICAL JOURNEY AND INSPIRATIONS
Joel’s music spans various genres, though he doesn’t delve into chutney or Bollywood. His vocal training, though not constant, has been fruitful, preparing him for national shows and performances.
Joel during a recent performance [Photo: Timon Fraser’s Photography]
“I’ve always looked up to Michael Jackson and the way he does music overall. My music taste is mostly from the 80s to the early 2000s,” he shares.
Before any show or recording session, Joel follows a rigorous rehearsal process.
“I do vocal warm-ups and then start rehearsing the specific song or songs I am to perform or record. Sometimes I listen to one song over and over for hours just so it is moulded in my mind. I’m currently recording my first song, which will be released soon, and it’s basically the same process.”
MODELLING CAREER
In addition to his musical pursuits, this East Coast resident has also ventured into modelling.
“I entered the Mr. India Worldwide Pageant, got into the top three, and since then, my modelling career took off,” he explains. Despite initial reluctance, he now embraces modelling wholeheartedly.
“I just enjoy modelling overall because it’s in that moment I feel somewhat powerful. I can be free, you know.”
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND FUTURE PLANS
Joel is also part of the Young Writers group with the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport. The group has penned songs for Guyana’s Independence celebrations, such as “Show Me the Love” for 2022 and “If You Believe” for 2023.
“I’ve also had a hand in writing ‘Is We Own’ along with some other talented singers and songwriters,” he adds.
Looking ahead, Joel aims to put Guyana on the map with his music. “When it comes to the music/songwriting aspect of my life, I want to be able to set my country on the map and represent it on the world stage,” he declares.
As for modelling, he remains open to possibilities, as it is still a new venture for him. Joel’s journey is supported by his manager, Joel Browne, and the team at Joey2kool Production.
“As I mentioned before, I’m now under Joey2kool Production, and we have our first song coming out soon, which is called ‘Forever.’ The goal is to release music and continue to build the brand Joel Valenski, more marketing and more work, whatever it takes to attain my goals and take my career to the next level.”
Despite the challenges of coming from a traditional family and industries that are just beginning to bloom, Joel remains undeterred.
“There is this saying that goes, if you love what you do, you’ll never feel like you’re working a day in your life,” he muses.
