Posts tagged with "Jamaica"

TOSH ALEXANDER – YAH

Today, international Jamaican-American artist Tosh Alexander releases the tantalizing official music video to her sizzling hit “Cum Yah,” available to watch HERE.

The official music video, directed by Rogen “Ruption” Walker (Aidonia, Konshens, Shenseea,) was shot in Portland, Jamaica, and immediately grabs the attention of all with Tosh’s hard-hitting presence as she pays homage to the 90’s golden era of Dancehall with a splendor aesthetic and enriching allure.

Tosh shares, “It was important for me to highlight the dynamic of the Jamaican culture through our fashion, attitude & art form. From the vibrant colors of the tropical- lux landscape, the fashion which pays homage to Caribbean & Dancehall fashion with subtle nuances of couture, to the grit of our expression throughout the video. I wanted the person watching “Cum Yah” to gain an authentic experience of my culture for those 3 minutes & 7 seconds.”

Since the release of “Cum Yah” earlier this month, the JonFX (Vybz Kartel, Shabba Ranks, XXXTentacion) produced dancehall track has dominated with praise earning placements on coveted playlists across major platforms, including Apple Music’s ‘Breaking Reggae,’ ‘Worldwide Riddim’ and Tidal’s ‘Dancehall Massive.’ The single topped Top 10 via iTunes Reggae charts as Jamaica’s finest such as Usain Bolt, Ky-Mani Marley, Baby Cham, Protoje and more praised the bubbling track via social media. The track cuts a strong dancehall stance that nods to Tosh’s heritage yet adds the unique flare that makes it an unmistakable Tosh Alexander hit.

LISTEN/ PURCHASE “CUM YAH” HERE
WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Tosh, named after her mother’s favorite singer, Peter Tosh, is a Brooklyn native raised in Jamaica. She captures the best of both worlds in her delivery & refuses to be placed in a box. “I grew up in both cultures so my approach to music and expression reflects exactly that,” she states. Serving her classic movie star looks layered with a Bad Gyal demeanor accompanied with smooth unadulterated vocals, Tosh is excited to release her new genre-bending sound authentic to her upbringing & life experiences. Tosh is no stranger to the music scene having received accolades from Rolling Stone, Clash Magazine & more. “Cum Yah” will serve as her highly anticipated return as she re-claims the title as Jamaica’s hottest sensation following a string of successful releases which include “Games” “Can’t Give You a Try” “911” featuring Ky-Mani Marley and more.

Photo Credit: Kayla Dawkins

LISTEN/ STREAM/ PURCHASE HERE

FEATURED ON
APPLE MUSIC
BREAKING REGGAE PLAYLIST
WORLDWIDE RIDDIM PLAYLIST

TIDAL
DANCEHALL MASSIVE PLAYLIST

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IT’S A KELVYN BOY’S WORLD

internationally acclaimed, award-winning, Ghanian superstar Kelvyn Boy sets his sight on a 2022 world take-over as he prepares for his world tour kicking off this week in Germany with North American, Canadian, U.K., and other European dates to follow.

A fixture in the growing reception for music deriving from continental Africa, Kelyvn Boy, today, is most known as one of the first artists to bring the sound of Afrobeats to Ghana to make compelling music that connects listeners of all walks to all aspects of music and sounds from Africa with both continental and international standpoints. Kelyvn Boy’s latest release, “Down Flat“ is a tenement for this claim as a success for the single continues to amass international success in Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Bermuda, Guinea-Bissau, and more. The single topped Apple Music’s Top 100 (Ghana) playlist at number one and ranked top ten on Billboard’s worldwide digital song sale charts, among many other achievements. The official music video stands currently at 5 + million views via YouTube since its release earlier this year. Watch HERE.

Within the last few years, the beloved artist has shot to superstardom—becoming one of Ghana’s most-streamed acts while spreading his wings to all corners of the globe. In 2020, Kelvyn Boy interviewed Billboard to discuss his aim to ‘Bring Ghana to the Grammys’ after releasing his second project “Black Star.” The sophomore effort received critical praise, gained a nomination at the Ghana Music Awards for ‘Best Album Of The Year,’ and earned Kelvyn the status of a rising Afrobeats superstar mastering unique artistry. With more music to come later this year and his worldwide tour, all roads lead to Kelvyn making his case as an African international superstar poised for esteemed global success.

Kelvin Brown known by his stage name Kelvyn Boy is an Afrobeats crusader and a household name in the Ghanaian Afro-Pop /Highlife space. The young musician and songwriter is a native of Assin Fosu in the Eastern region of Ghana. He has swiftly gained waves of interest in the local music industry and the world at large with his fresh sound and peculiar approach to the genre he chooses, which is setting him apart from his peers. Kelvyn Boy’s passion for music started at an early age when he used to sing with every opportunity that came his way. In 2008, he got his first musical opportunity to sing in churches, and from that time he got noticed for his melodious voice and thereafter was recommended by others. In 2010 he was performing at Karaoke nights and pubs. The passionate artiste has been influenced musically by Michael Jackson, Osibisa, Fela Kuti, and Bob Marley, who he says still inspire him because of their work ethic. He mastered the process of his music writing skills in 2012 and began adding his vocals on beats. He looks to soar higher in his music career just like his predecessors.

Kelvyn Boy has a unique musical style derived from his desire to sing and compose lyrics with everything happening around him. His soulful side, which he adopted from regularly singing in church, makes his sound very melodic. He, however, hopes to develop his music career around these various genres; Afro-beats, Afro-pop, Reggae, Dancehall, Highlife, or a fusion of ‘feel-good genres’ for music lovers. He plans to study and create his unique sound out of what he has learned from these amazing music genres. Generally, the theme of his songs is woven around romantic and uplifting themes.

With his soulful voice and electrifying performances, he has attracted a growing fanbase across the world having staged performances in Belgium at the ‘Bomboclat Festival’, an experience he highlights as one of the best in his entire career and life. He has also performed in Australia, Jamaica, the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Sierra Leone, and other countries sharing the same stage with acts like Ziggy Marley, Chronixx, Busy Signal, Serani, Afro B, and other great and popular music personalities.

Kelvyn Boy is currently signed unto Blakk Arm Group and has already released hit singles like “Mea” and “Momo”. He also released one of the most listened to EPs in Ghana titled “TIME” in June 2019 and also his “BLACK STAR” Album released in November 2020 was nominated at the Ghana Music Awards for Best Album Of The Year. He has been featured and also featured other artists on numerous songs, he has collaborated with artists like Mr. Vegas, Sarkodie, Manifest, Kwesi Arthur, Medikal, Kojo Funds, Kidi, and some new artists both in Ghana and other countries.

A legend-in-the-making Kelvyn boy says: “Making decisions based on emotions make bad career decisions, so instead, I put it in my music. I am working with my band to create more exciting live band shows, and I will continue to record great musical pieces. I’m always creating new and distinct music materials”

Keep up with Kelvyn Boy:

INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

NAIRA MARLEY – GOD’S TIMING’S THE BEST

Nigerian Afrobeat and Hip-Hop artist, Naira Marley, has released his debut project titled God’s Timing’s the Best on May 30th, 2022. This release coincided with Marlian Day, a day declared by Naira to celebrate liberty and the resilience of Marlians – Naira’s fans – amidst the challenging times being faced globally.

The Marlian Music frontrunner has assembled a roster of exceptional talent including South African poet and songwriter Busiswa, Jamaica’s Jada Kingdom, French rap star MHD, and fellow Marlian Music artists Zinoleesky and Mohbad to craft a 14-track classic set featuring production by Rexxie, AYK, Niphkeys, Diquenza and Leo Beats. The project’s production and sound has been strategically crafted to speak to the Afro-Caribbean global diaspora, taking cues from Yoruba, Angolan, Dutch and French sounds, cultures and dialects.

“God’s Timing’s the Best, has nothing to do with the track list but everything to do with me. I feel like everything in my life has led up to this moment. Relocating back home, my career, my label, my highs and lows. It’s all God’s perfect timing.” – Naira Marley

Naira has captured the hearts of many across the globe, organically developing a cult-like following. He inspires his audience to be unapologetically themselves. He uses his platform to bring a spotlight to the underrepresented, unspoken for and marginalized. Through his music he aims to bring joy to those communities. GTTB reflects Naira’s autonomous attitude, and his outspokenness which is akin to Kendrick Lamar; his vibrance and bold character like Kodak Black; his connection to the streets like Giggs; and his rebellious and subversive style like Slowthai.

God’s Timing’s the Best is out now on all DSPs.

The Tracklist consists of Jo Dada, Happy (Ft Mayorkun), Ayewada, O’dun (Ft Zinoleesky), No Panties (Ft Jada Kingdom), Montego Bay, Melanin (Ft Lil Kesh), Drink Alcohol Like It’s Water (Ft Chivv & Diquenza), Excuse Moi (Ft MHD), Modinat Kai, Owo (Ft Mohbad), First Time In America, Coming (Ft Busiswa), Kojosese.

With over 12 million combined social media followers and 300 million streams across DSPs and YouTube, Lagos-via-Peckham superstar Naira Marley is Nigeria’s most notorious Afrobeats and Hip-Hop artist who has single handedly created one of the largest cult followings in the world – a community affectionately termed the “Marlians.” The pioneer of AfroBashment, Naira’s 2014 debut track “Marry Juana” was the first to fuse the slang and accent of his birth city of Lagos with the floor-filling rhythms of Jamaican Bashment – all delivered with the charismatic road swagger of his adopted hometown of Peckham, South London.

The last two years have proven the President of the Marlian Nation is on the road to stardom. He’s given electrifying performances at WizKid’s StarBoy Fest @ London’s O2 Arena, formed his own immensely successful Marlian Music label, headlined his massive Marlian Fests drawing in upwards of 30,000 fans, skyrocketed from 100k to 6 million Instagram followers, and released a series of local chart-topping hits including “Am I A Yahoo Boy” — the infamous satirical track about fraud that saw Naira jailed by the Nigerian government in 2019.

Inspired by the success of his first US tour in December 2021, “First Time in America” Marlian gives a taste of what to expect from his dynamic debut album and continues his ascent across the globe. On the explosive standout “Coming,” which has surpassed 20 million streams globally, Marley joins forces with South African singer Busiswa. Kicking off 2022, Marley debuted the visual for his festive Detty December jam, “Kojosese,” following a viral TikTok challenge that saw 20 million views. Marley’s sound has eschewed the saccharine commerciality of the Nigerian AfroPop mainstream, proving that hit records can still be unpredictable, wild affairs.

Follow Naira Marley:

TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, YOUTUBE.

SHENSEEA – ALPHA

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WATCH SHENSEEA’S DAZZLING DEBUT LATE NIGHT PERFORMANCE OF ALBUM TRACK “DESERVE IT” ON JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE! — HERE.

Rising global artist Shenseea, has released her debut album, ALPHA (Rich Immigrants/Interscope Records). A genre spanning album anchored in dancehall, hip hop, and pop, the album spotlights the Jamaican artist’s songwriting prowess and ear for insatiable melodies and hooks. The project features superstar production from Rvssian (her longtime collaborator and Rich Immigrants founder), Scott Storch and London On Da Track. Opening with the sultry track “Target,” Shenseea takes us on a journey of female empowering tracks like “Deserve It” “Lick” and dancehall anthems in “Henkel Glue” with Jamaican legend Beenie Man, while soulful anthems in “Body Count” and “Sun Comes Up” spotlight Shenseea’s vocal chops. Rounding out the project are special guest features like Megan Thee Stallion, 21 Savage, Offset, Sean Paul and Tyga. Listen to the album available now HERE.

Listen to the album HERE.

Watch HERE.

Shenseea is one of Jamaica’s brightest dancehall acts cosigned by some of music’s biggest luminaries including Cardi B, Rihanna, Ye, Christina Aguilera, Drake and beyond. She broke through the scene with her viral single “Loodi” feat. Vybez Kartel; the following year, Shenseea toured Europe with dancehall superstar Sean Paul. In 2019, Shenseea signed with Interscope Records (under Rich Immigrants Records) and released her first label single “Blessed” featuring Tyga (now with over 57M views on Youtube). The track which came with a music video was praised by the likes of Hypebeast, FADER, PAPER Magazine, VIBE and more; it quickly racked up over 1,000,000 views overnight. The road towards ALPHA has been a legendary one for Shenseea who has been crowned Apple’s “Up Next” artist, MTV’s “Push” artist as well as iHeart Radio’s “On The Verge” artist. In 2021, she was tapped by Kanye West to add her rap and vocal stylings to two different songs on the now Grammy nominated DONDA (“Ok Ok Pt 2” and “Pure Souls”) and playing her first ever U.S. festival with Rolling Loud Miami and New York. With a Billboard “Up Next” title under her belt and “rising” profile by the FADER, New York Times, The Guardian and more, Shenseea is rapidly proving that she is a true artist to watch on an international scale.

Shenseea f/ Megan Thee Stallion – Lick

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Global artist, Shenseea, has released a brand new single “Lick” (via Rich Immigrants/Interscope Records) featuring Megan Thee Stallion. “Lick” is the first official release off Shenseea’s upcoming debut album, ALPHA, which will be released March 11th. Produced by Murda Beatz, “Lick” features a snippet from Pupa Nas T and Denise Belfon’s “Work;” reimagined by Shenseea as the track’s insatiable hook. Rounding out Shenseea’s own saccharine like vocal stylings on the song is Meg’s incredible rapid-fire bars turning it into an undeniable power anthem that will have listeners willing for Summer. Shenseea is featured on Apple Music’s New Music Daily cover upon release today, check out the technicolour music video that accompanied the single above or stream the track via streaming platforms below: Listen to “Lick” by Shenseea ft. Megan Thee Stallion HERE.

Not one to rest on her laurels, Shenseea has had an incredible lead up to the new single. She was tapped by Kanye West to add her rap and vocal stylings to two different songs on the now Grammy nominated DONDA (“Ok Ok Pt 2” and “Pure Souls”) as well as playing her first ever U.S. festivals with Rolling Loud in Miami and New York. All while putting finishing touches on the new project, burning the mic on Funk Flex Freestyle and releasing fan favourites like “Run Run” and “Be Good”. “Lick” is Shenseea’s first official single of 2022 and will be off her upcoming debut album coming out this year. More information on that soon.

Keep Up With Shenseea:

https://www.instagram.com/shenseea/

https://twitter.com/shenyeng

https://www.facebook.com/ShenseeaOfficial/

About Shenseea:

Shenseea has ascended through Jamaica’s dancehall ranks to become one of the genre’s most sought-after artists. She broke through the scene with her viral single “Loodi” feat. Vybez Kartel; the following year, Shenseea toured Europe with dancehall superstar Sean Paul. In 2019, Shenseea signed with Interscope Records (under Rick Immigrants Records) and released her first label single “Blessed” featuring Tyga (now with over 57M views on Youtube). The track which came with a music video was praised by the likes of Hypebeast, FADER, PAPER Magazine, VIBE and more; it quickly racked up over 1,000,000 views overnight. While at work on her debut album, Shenseea has been feeding her fans with one-off singles like “Bad Habit,”, “Good Comfort,” “Sidechick Song” and more, racking millions of plays across DSPs and Youtube. In 2021, she rose up the ranks further being tapped by Kanye West to add her rap and vocal stylings to two different songs on the Grammy nominated DONDA (“Ok Ok Pt 2” and “Pure Souls”) as well as playing her first ever U.S. festivals with Rolling Loud in Miami and New York. With a Billboard “Up Next” title under her belt and “rising” profile by the FADER, New York Times, The Guardian and more, Shenseea is rapidly proving that she is a true artist to watch on an international scale.

About Megan Thee Stallion:

Hailing from Houston, Megan Thee Stallion is a three time GRAMMY winner, philanthropist and ever-evolving cultural icon. From the release of her critically acclaimed and Gold certified debut album, Good News, to earning two global record breaking Billboard Hot 100 #1 hits with the “Savage Remix” featuring Beyoncé, and “WAP” with Cardi B, Megan has proven unstoppable. Megan has been recognized for her musical achievements with three GRAMMY wins, including Best New Artist, three American Music Awards, and nine BET Awards. Megan was also honored as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2020. In October 2020, following a powerful and politically charged performance on Saturday Night Live that demanded justice for Breonna Taylor, Megan published her monumental “Why I Speak Up For Black Women” op-ed and accompanying visual with The New York Times.

SEAN PAUL × SIA – DYNAMITE

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The multi-award-winning and Billboard chart topping, Sean Paul reunites with Sia to release their club anthem “Dynamite” – an indisputable pop banger to round out the year. Produced by Banx & Ranx and Greg Kurstin (Adele, Pink, The Foo Fighters), the upbeat single relies on dancehall-centric beats, Sia’s trademark quavering voice as she belts “Light me up and set me free,” and Sean’s undeniable dance inducing riffs.

LISTEN TO “DYNAMITE” HERE.

WATCH THE “DYNAMITE” VISUALIZER HERE

The track marks a highly anticipated follow-up collaboration between the genre-bending artists since their smash hit “Cheap Thrills,” also produced by Greg Kurstin, which has racked up over 1.6 billion YouTube views since its 2016 release.

Of the song, Sean Paul says, “’Dynamite’ started out as just a good vibe song. After recording ‘Cheap Thrills’ Sia and I knew we would record another single and ‘Dynamite’ is the second installment.” He adds “Banx and Ranx, Greg Kurstin, myself and Sia, worked on this single and I hope people gravitate towards it like our first single. ‘Dynamite’ is another feel good record for me and I just want to thank Sia and her entire team, my team Duttyrock, my management team and big up my mom who introduced me to Sia’s music.”

Throughout his career, Sean Paul has carved a home for himself while championing dancehall, as being an artist with a unique sound, look and passion. His ability to show the power and unity in music through various collaborations, across many genres has catapulted his career over the years on various charts, awards and with an enormous fanbase. Effectively Sean has brought that same concept back to his own genre and collaborated with some of his colleagues in reggae and dancehall, highlighting that together we can also make great music.

This year, he released Live N Livin, a collaborative celebration of his Jamaican heritage and dancehall roots in which Sean trades the mic with Buju Banton and Mavado. Dancehall can be stereotyped as a competitive, macho space where sound clashes are king, but Live N Livin is meant to emphasize what’s possible when unity is the goal. “We don’t need to divide our fans to attain the rotations on the airwaves or streams,” Sean says. “I hold this album very dear to my heart because it shows the effort of collaboration over confrontation.”

He’ll bring that spirit to the rest of his 2021 releases, too. Stay tuned for more from Sean Paul soon.

About Sean Paul

It’s rare for an artist to become the personification of their genre. For just a word or phrase from their mouth to conjure the entire artform. Sean Paul is one of those artists. Let him say “shake dat ting” in his commanding voice, and you’ll hear the embodiment of dancehall. Across seven studio albums and counting, Sean Paul has taken the genre global, from its origin in clubs in Kingston, Jamaica to the top of the charts, packing some of the biggest venues in more than 120 countries. Only Sean has the distinction of being the first Jamaican to play shows in Kazakhstan and Madagascar.

The Grammy Award-winning, international superstar has ignited stages in over 120 other countries, performing for huge audiences in some of the biggest venues around the world. Sean Paul has earned several Grammy and Billboard Music Award nominations and is the recipient of an American Music Award, MOBO Awards, Soul Train Awards, MTV Music Awards, ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Music Awards, a Source Award and a BET Award. He is the only Jamaican artist to have won an American Music Award (2006) for Favorite Pop/Rock Male artist.

Connect with Sean Paul:

INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK

LILA IKÉ — “BATTY RIDER SHORTS” VIDEO

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Her New Single Calls To Protect Our Children from Sexual Predators

“Lila’s vocal agility can bend notes and transcend genres, the kind of voice that makes you want to turn to your friend at a show and say “Is she for real??” — NPR Tiny Desk

Rising Jamaican star Lila Iké reveals the video for her brand new single “Batty Rider Shorts,” available now via In.Digg.Nation Collective/Six Course/RCA Records. You can watch the video, directed by Dezignr Studios, HERE.

The Jamaican singer shared a personal story behind the song. “I have been writing ‘Batty Rider Shorts’ for over a period of four years. This song was inspired by a situation I observed within my community. An innocent child (age 10 or so) who I would often sit and speak with about life and give words of encouragement (even whilst I was a child myself ) eventually was taken advantage of by someone who should have been looking out for her. I was moved to tears on my drive back from the country as I thought about how her light became infiltrated by the dark energies that are hovering over children everyday, all over the world. We need to all be more responsible as a community, as friends, as parents, as extended family and just as people. Look out for each other but most importantly our children.”

The powerful track, produced by Ziah .Push, is her first original solo song since the release of her 2020 debut EP The Experience.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

Oct 12, 2021 @ Paard in The Hague, Netherlands

Oct 13, 2021 @ Doornroosje in Nijmegen, Netherlands

Oct 19, 2021 @ Melkweg in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Oct 22, 2021 @ Post Tenebras Rock (PTR) – L’Usine in Geneva, Switzerland

Oct 23, 2021 @ Rote Fabrik in Zurich, Switzerland

April 28, 2022 @ Cabaret Sauvage in Paris, France

Jul 1, 2022 @ Summerjam Festival in Cologne, Germany

About Lila Iké:

Lila Iké has become one of the most sought-after musicians to emerge right now. Born in Manchester, Jamaica, the singer is gaining attention at home and abroad with her distinctive delivery, old-school sensibilities and modern-day swagger. She can freestyle and sing in the same breath. Her lyrics are razor sharp. Her cadence is bold. In May 2020, Lila Iké released her debut 5-track EP The ExPerience to critical acclaim via In.Digg.Nation Collective/RCA Records/Six Course. In that year alone, she was nominated for Best Reggae Act at the 2020 British MOBO Awards, named one of 2020’s Most Interesting Artists via SPIN and selected for BBC 1xtra’s Hot For 2020 Artist list. Her song “I Spy” was also chosen as one of VICE‘s Best Songs for 2020. She joined the late night stage on A Late Show #PlayatHome with Stephen Colbert with Protoje and performed on NPR Tiny Desk At Home, raking in over 2 million+ views. Before the global pandemic, in 2019, Lila embarked on her very first solo tour throughout Europe and opened for Protoje on his U.S. tour. She has performed on international festival stages including Rototom Sunsplash (Spain), Sole DXB Festival (Dubai), Reggae Sumfest (Montego Bay, Jamaica) and BRIC’s Celebrate Brooklyn! (NYC, USA).

LILA IKE × BATTY RIDER SHORTS

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Lila Iké continues to turn heads as one of the most promising stars. The fast-rising songbird hailing from Jamaica unleashes her first single “Batty Rider Shorts” since the release of her 2020 debut EP The Experience. The powerful song (produced by Ziah .Push) carries an important message of responsibility to protect and nurture our youth.

“Batty Rider Shorts” addresses child sex trafficking and pedophilia, a recurring issue worldwide, but one particularly close to Lila’s heart as it has been ravaging her native country. There has been an alarming rate of missing young girls, murder, rape and reports of child molestation over the past year alone.

The singer, who is known for her genre-fusing blend of reggae, R&B, dancehall and hip hop, talks about the song’s significance.

“My hope is that a little girl who doesn’t understand why a particular man is being so nice to her might hear a song like this and wonder ‘Hmm, I wonder if he’s trying to…’ because a lot of young girls are just not socialized into healthy relationships.”

She continues, “I think it’s very important to speak about these things. The history of our music was a medium for bringing information to the people, especially reggae music. We can have fun, listen to party and dance music and songs about love, but we still have real issues that need to be addressed too.”

Listen to “Batty Rider Shorts” HERE.

A visual, directed by Dezignr Studios, will follow next week.

Lila Iké will continue to release new music throughout the year and is currently recording music for her anticipated debut album.

This October, she kicks off a mini Europe tour and will perform songs from her EP The Experience for the first time live.

Tour Dates:

Oct 12, 2021 @ Paard in The Hague, Netherlands

Oct 13, 2021 @ Doornroosje in Nijmegen, Netherlands

Oct 19, 2021 @ Melkweg in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Oct 22, 2021 @ Post Tenebras Rock (PTR) – L’Usine in Geneva, Switzerland

Oct 23, 2021 @ Rote Fabrik in Zurich, Switzerland

April 28, 2022 @ Cabaret Sauvage in Paris, France

Jul 1, 2022 @ Summerjam Festival in Cologne, Germany

About Lila Iké:

Lila Iké has become one of the most sought-after musicians to emerge right now. Born in Manchester, Jamaica, the singer is gaining attention at home and abroad with her distinctive delivery, old-school sensibilities and modern-day swagger. She can freestyle and sing in the same breath. Her lyrics are razor sharp. Her cadence is bold. In May 2020, Lila Iké released her debut 5-track EP The ExPerience to critical acclaim via In.Digg.Nation Collective/RCA Records/Six Course. In that year alone, she was nominated for Best Reggae Act at the 2020 British MOBO Awards, named one of 2020’s Most Interesting Artists via SPIN and selected for BBC 1xtra’s Hot For 2020 Artist list. Her song “I Spy” was also chosen as one of VICE‘s Best Songs for 2020. She joined the late night stage on A Late Show #PlayatHome with Stephen Colbert with Protoje and performed on NPR Tiny Desk At Home, raking in over 2 million+ views. Before the global pandemic in 2019, Lila embarked on her very first solo tour throughout Europe and opened for Protoje on his U.S. tour. She has performed on international festival stages including Rototom Sunsplash (Spain), Sole DXB Festival(Dubai), Reggae Sumfest in (Montego Bay, Jamaica) and BRIC’s Celebrate Brooklyn! (NYC, USA).

GOV’T MULE ANNOUNCES NEW TOUR DATES

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Gov’t Mule Announces Six Co-Headlining Shows with Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

Also Appearing on Willie Nelson’s 2021 Outlaw Music Festival Tour

Gov’t Mule are headed back on the road this summer and fall. The acclaimed quartet has announced a run of six co-headlining shows with GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, and horn-blower Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, kicking off on August 25th in Salt Lake City. The dates will feature full, equal length sets from both bands, with the closing set rotating per show, and will adhere to local regulations as pertains to seating, capacity, and overall public health safety protocols.

Fans can also catch Gov’t Mule performing select headlining shows, including a just-announced date in Boston with special guest Margo Price. The band will then join Willie Nelson’s 2021 Outlaw Music Festival Tour from September 10th through October 24th performing alongside Nelson, Sturgill Simpson, The Avett Brothers, and more. Tickets are on sale now, with the newly announced shows including Shakopee, MN on sale Wednesday, July 21st at 10am local time and all others going on sale this Friday, July 23rd at 10am local time. See below for full tour routing. For more details, please visit this website.

“Getting back out on the road and embarking on a true tour is something we’ve been looking forward to for almost 2 years,” shares Gov’t Mule front man and GRAMMY Award-winning vocalist, songwriter, producer, and revered guitarist Warren Haynes. “This upcoming tour is really unique in that it offers so many different options: some shows with Trombone Shorty and his amazing band, some 2-set Gov’t Mule only shows where we can really stretch out, and some as part of the absolutely stacked Outlaw Tour where we get to play alongside (and with) so many of our friends.”

Coming up later this winter, Gov’t Mule return to Jewel Paradise Cove Resort in Runaway Bay, Jamaica for Island Exodus 12, the ultimate “concert-cation” experience from January 16-20, 2022. Hosted by Gov’t Mule, who will perform three full two-set shows, and Warren Haynes, offering his unique, interactive “Q and Play” set, a hybrid concert performance and storytelling session, the multi-day experience will also feature intimate beachfront concerts from Dawes and The War and Treaty, who will perform multiple sets, and special guest Ron Holloway, who will present an extended afternoon “Sax On The Beach” set. Attendees who arrive early for Exodus Eve on January 15th will see “RoHo” part of Melvin Seals & JGB + Ron Holloway’s “Legion of Melvin” show. Visit here for more info and ticketing details.

Gov’t Mule recently delivered three streaming-only albums via Evil Teen Records including Live At The Cotton Club (PRESS HERE to listen/stream), which features the band’s original line-up and was recorded in Georgia where the band was formed, Live At The Angel Orensanz Center (PRESS HERE to listen/stream), recorded during the second of back-to-back shows as part of their New Year’s run in 2008, and Live At The Beacon Theatre, recorded on New Year’s Eve 2017 when the band rang in the new year with special guest Jackie Greene as part of their annual New York City residency (PRESS HERE to listen/stream).

ABOUT GOV’T MULE & WARREN HAYNES

Gov’t Mule – Warren Haynes [vocals, guitar], Matt Abts [drums], Danny Louis [keyboards, guitar, and backing vocals], and Jorgen Carlsson [bass] – has galvanized a global fan base with their honest, organic and daring music and improvisational virtuosity, leading them to be recognized as one of the most timeless, revered and active bands in the world whose spot amongst rock titans remains unshakable. Led by visionary GRAMMY Award-winning and guitar legend Warren Haynes – a cornerstone of the American music landscape – the enduring, globally revered group has showcased its intelligence and breadth over the course of 20+ studio and live albums, thousands of memorable performances and millions of album and track sales. Gov’t Mule has become a human encyclopedia of great American music while adding to that canon with their signature sound. Their live album and full concert-length film Bring On The Music – Live at The Capitol Theatre, is out now –PRESS HERE to listen to Pt. 1 and PRESS HERE to listen to Pt . 2. The band’s flexible interplay in the studio and on stage makes them a true living, breathing ensemble and Haynes is lauded as one of the most formidable guitarists and vocalists of the modern era and a prolific songwriter and producer. Throughout his prolific career as part of three of the greatest live groups in rock history – Allman Brothers Band, Gov’t Mule and the Dead – and an acclaimed solo artist, he has become one of music’s most treasured storytellers.

U-ROY × SOLID GOLD U-ROY

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SOLID GOLD U-ROY OUT TODAY

GROUNDBREAKING DEEJAY AND MUSICAL PIONEER JOINED ON NEW COLLECTION BY SPECIAL GUESTS INCLUDING ZIGGY MARLEY, SHAGGY, SANTIGOLD, MICK JONES, SCIENTIST, SLY & ROBBIE, RYGIN KING, BIG YOUTH, AND MANY MORE

U-ROY & ZIGGY MARLEY’S “TRENCHTOWN ROCK” OFFICIAL VISUALIZER PREMIERES TODAY – WATCH

Trojan Jamaica/BMG is proud to celebrate the life and legacy of the late, great U-Roy with today’s release of U-Roy’s final album, SOLID GOLD U-ROY. The eagerly awaited album – which features guest appearances from such icons as Ziggy Marley, Shaggy, Mick Jones of The Clash, Santigold, Sly & Robbie, David Hinds of Steel Pulse, Big Youth, Tarrus Riley, Rygin King, Jesse Royal, Richie Spice, and Scientist – is available now at all DSPs, streaming services and limited-edition colored vinyl.

Produced by label co-founders Zak Starkey and Sshh Liguz, with Youth, and mixed by David Sardy (Toots & The Maytals, Oasis, The Who), SOLID GOLD U-ROY boasts a stellar band of superstars comprised of Zak on guitar, New Orleans legend Cyril Neville on percussion, as well as reggae royalty, including drummer Sly Dunbar, Robbie Shakespeare on bass and backing vocals, Tony Chin on guitar and backing vocals, Robbie Lyn on keyboards, trumpet player Stingwray and saxophonist/horn arranger/backing vocalist Dean Fraser.

Originally scheduled for release in 2020, SOLID GOLD U-ROY now serves as a musical memorial to the one and only U-Roy, who sadly passed away on February 17 of this year. One of the most profoundly influential reggae stars of his generation, U-Roy left behind an unmatched legacy as an originator of the chatty rhythmic vocal style known as toasting – a key foundational element in the development of rap and hip hop in the 1970s. Today’s release is marked by the premiere of an official visualizer for album highlight and Bob Marley classic, “Trenchtown Rock,” with U-Roy and Ziggy Marley.

WATCH U-ROY AND ZIGGY MARLEY’S “TRENCHTOWN ROCK”

DOWNLOAD/STREAM SOLID GOLD U-ROY

SOLID GOLD U-ROY was previously heralded by such tracks as U-Roy and Rygin King’s “Stop That Train” and U-Roy and Santigold’s “Man Next Door,” both of which are joined by official music videos directed by Nick Franco/1185 Films in collaboration with Zak and Sshh and streaming now at the official Trojan Jamaica YouTube channel.

LISTEN TO U-ROY AND RYGIN KING “STOP THAT TRAIN”

WATCH U-ROY AND RYGIN KING “STOP THAT TRAIN”

LISTEN TO U-ROY AND SANTIGOLD “MAN NEXT DOOR”

WATCH U-ROY AND SANTIGOLD “MAN NEXT DOOR”

Last year saw SOLID GOLD U-ROY first announced alongside a new release of U-Roy’s iconic “Wake The Town.” Originally released in 1970, the track proved a #1 Jamaican pop chart phenomenon and immediately established U-Roy as an international star. Last year’s release of “Wake The Town” coincided with a tour of Brazil by an all-star band featuring U-Roy, Zak, and Sshh that performed to over 150,000 fans in early 2020.

LISTEN TO “WAKE THE TOWN”

U-Roy, also known as The Originator, The Teacher, The Godfather or just simply Daddy, wasn’t the first Jamaican deejay but he was undoubtedly the most influential. Born Ewart Beckford on September 21, 1942 in Jones Town, West Kingston, U-Roy holds an exalted place in the trajectory of Jamaican music. By adapting his melodic, jazz-inflected scatted rhymes to “versioned” records – that is, alternative cuts of recordings with the original vocals stripped down or completely removed – U-Roy elevated the uniquely Jamaican vocal style known as toasting into a hit-making artform.

For three months in 1970, U-Roy’s “Wear You To The Ball,” “Wake The Town,” and “Rule The Nation” indeed ruled the nation, occupying the top three slots on Jamaica’s radio station charts. U-Roy’s many successes – which also included 1973’s VERSION GALORE, the inaugural deejay album – led to an explosion in recordings which forever altered the course of Jamaican music, especially its dancehall strain. Subsequent generations of superstar Jamaican deejays including Shabba Ranks, Shaggy and Sean Paul have each said they owe their careers to the trail blazed by U-Roy.

U-Roy’s impact further extended far beyond Jamaica’s shores. In 1973, Jamaican immigrant DJ Kool Herc strung up his sound system in the Bronx to play at a back-to-school fundraiser. Before the set, he told his emcee, Coke La Rock, to chat over the breaks in songs like U-Roy and the other deejays he heard growing up in Kingston – thus, the foundation for rap and hip-hop culture was born.

Throughout his illustrious career U-Roy was the recipient of countless international awards; in 2007 he received the Order of Distinction from the Jamaican government for his contribution to music. In 2018 U-Roy was introduced to Trojan Jamaica co-founders Zak Starkey and “Sshh” Liguz and a friendship quickly developed. Three weeks after their initial meeting, U-Roy went into the Trojan Jamaica Sound Studios in Ocho Rios and revisited several of his classic tunes, backed by a stellar cast of musicians: Sly Dunbar (drums), Robbie Shakespeare (bass), Robbie Lyn (keyboards), and Tony Chin and Zak Starkey on guitars.

The resultant album, SOLID GOLD U-ROY, was originally scheduled to arrive in 2020 along with a worldwide tour but of course, the global pandemic derailed those plans. Sadly, U-Roy passed on February 17, 2021, prompting tributes from artists, DJs, sound systems, and media outlets spanning the New York Times, BBC, Variety, The FADER, Rolling Stone, and NME, among many others, all of which affirmed the infinite ripple that U-Roy set forth to the universe. Already praised by BlackBook as “the grandest of grand finale statements,” SOLID GOLD U-ROY now stands as The Originator’s ultimate recording and a heartfelt celebration of his extraordinary legacy, which resonates within every Jamaican deejay and dancehall track that has followed.

“We had always loved U-Roy because of the power of his voice, and his lyrics, with their humor and seriousness,” says Sshh. “We made SOLID GOLD U-ROY because we wanted everyone to know that U-Roy helped invent rap.”

“It’s heartbreaking that he didn’t live to see the release of this record,” adds Zak. “The outpouring of love and respect that happened after he passed was beautiful, but bittersweet, knowing this reimagining was in the wings. It’s an honor to be able to spread his musical legacy.”