Chris Malachi seeks ‘Brighter Days’ post-Melissa

On the eve of Hurricane Melissa, recording artiste Chris Malachi, like many others, couldn't shake the sense of dread that hung in the air.

But amid that heaviness came a moment of calm when he heard his parents praying, their quiet faith cutting through the uncertainty. That moment would go on to inspire his interlude Brighter Days, a song of hope and grounding for Jamaicans weathering the hurricane's aftermath.

"I'm sure they (his parents) were as worried as I was, but in the midst of that, they still called on God. And that was a big reminder for me to do the same," he told THE WEEKEND STAR. "I wanted to create something that would ground people in that same mindset. Something that I knew every Jamaican would relate to and understand. Something that they could sing to themselves even when the song isn't playing."

Inspired by that moment, Chris retreated to his space and began shaping what would become Brighter Days. The short interlude, recorded and released within days of the hurricane, blends soul and roots-reggae influences with gentle reassurance. It's a simple reminder that even in chaos, faith and music can offer peace.

"The words came quickly," he said. "But it took a full week of figuring out how to record, mix, and master the song myself for the very first time. When I shared a rough version online, people were really moved by it, so I decided to polish it up and create visuals with my friend Omari Harris. We linked the day after the storm and had everything ready the next day. It was a real labour of love," Chris said.

One lyric stands out to him because it speaks to the unchanging and loving character of God: "You'll never leave us or forsake us, so lead us into brighter days."

For Chris, Brighter Days isn't just a response to the storm, but a reminder to find peace in the middle of life's uncertainties.

"Sometimes in the midst of a disaster, we may feel like God has forsaken us," he said, "but I believe that's when His love shines the most. It forces us to focus on the things that matter."

Since its release, the song has struck a chord with listeners who say it helped them stay calm through the chaos. For Chris, that reaction means everything.

"When people tell me it brought them peace or strength, that's exactly why I made it," he shared. "I just wanted to remind us all that better days are coming."

Beyond the music, he's also been volunteering with the Salvation Army, organising clothing drives, and delivering food and care packages to needy communities.

"I truly believe this kind of active solidarity is what will build the country back to where it needs to be," he said, "and I hope it inspires a deeper sense of unity in all of us."