Sheldon Lawrence (Aidonia)

Born Sheldon Aitana Lawrence on April 6, 1981, Aidonia is the second of four children for his mother who was a teacher, and his father an ex-soldier. Originally from the Red Hills Road area, he took his stage name from the first two letters in his middle name 'Aitana', and 'Donia', a name which he earned while playing football.

Aidonia first became interested in becoming a deejay after watching a tape of Sting 1993 with the infamous clash between Beenie Man, and Bounty Killer his icon. Not long after watching the Sting 93 tape, he began re-enacting the clash for classmates and friends, many of whom recognised his talent from as far back as then. He started writing his own lyrics and formed the JAG1 (Jah A Guide) crew with friends. JAG1 or JOP (Jag One Productions) were often referred to when they were performing at school concerts and fetes.

After being expelled, he relocated to the United States with his father, and started working at FedEx. For the next three years, he would visit Jamaica regularly, and did a few 'minor' things on the dancehall scene in New York. While in New York, he was encouraged by some to return to Jamaica in order to get his career going; he did just that.