Selector/Dj Yaadcore is a cultured and humbled reggae selector that has already began making waves on Jamaica’s music scene. Also the personal Dj for international reggae artist Protoje.

Miles Ahead | NYC • MIA • KIN • LDN • TYO • JHB • RJ

8x GRAMMY® Award-winning singer/songwriter/producer, Stephen Marley just released his new album Old Soul on September 15, 2023 - his first full-length project since 2016. Featuring a stellar line-up of special guests including Bob Weir, Eric Clapton, Jack Johnson, Ziggy Marley, Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Buju Banton, and Slightly Stoopid, the 14-track acoustic-inspired album is now available on all digital platforms via Tuff Gong Collective/UMe/Ghetto Youths International.  Limited-edition double LP vinyl in translucent yellow and green, CD, 2LP standard black vinyl and merch bundles are available for pre-order at stephenmarleymusic.com.  

Old Soul comes as a complete revelation. While grounded from the road during the COVID lockdown, Stephen set up a new studio on a remote family farm in the Florida countryside, holding nightly jam sessions in a converted garage. With a stripped-down ensemble comprising binghi drums, bass, acoustic guitar, and flute, Stephen played whatever he felt like — ranging from original compositions and reggae rarities with deep personal meaning to classics recorded by Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, and The Beatles. “Irie vibration,” Stephen says of the sounds made together on the farm. The lion’s share of Old Soul was recorded during these “unplugged” jam sessions.

Even as the album showcases Ragga’s versatility, the message within his music remains consistent. “We come to free the people’s minds,” says Stephen. “Only way you can free your soul is to free your mind. My father say, ‘No chains on my feet, but I’m not free.’ And then he come say, ‘Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery.’ Anywhere the music calls us, we are going to be there to spread the message of love and unity.” 

Old Soul explores a musical palette that spans a variety of cultures and genres alike, with hand-selected special guests furthering the spiritual journey that encompasses the album. 

In celebration of the new album, Stephen has embarked on an ambitious Old Soul Tour Unplugged 2023 through the fall.

When Jesse Royal was only a cub, the Lord revealed to his mother that she would have to release one of her sons to the world, proclaiming “he will be a psalmist, declaring righteousness and justice throughout creation.” As Jesse matured into a young lion, his mother observed in him a strong sense of integrity and a natural ability to positively affect those around him. But, it was his deep spirituality, passion for life and unique connection to music that would convince her that he was being molded to be used by the Creator. 

Jesse David Leroi Grey, aka Jesse Royal, was born April 29, 1989. He enjoyed his early years in the hills of Maroon Town and the District of Orange in St. James before moving in the late 90’s with his mother and brother to join his father in Kingston. As fate would have it, Royal developed a special relationship with Daniel ‘Bambaata’ Marley (son of Ziggy Marley) at school. His friendship with Daniel proved to be fuel to the fire as they shared a deep passion for music and football. Their friendship evolved as they spent a great part of their childhood together. Soon the natural inclination confirmed they were simply brothers with different mothers. As these cubs became lions so grew their devotion to music. With the help of longtime friend Curt ‘Qban’ White they began composing and creating their own music. And together they proceeded to fulfill what they knew was a predestined musical journey, designed to inspire, engage and unite people beyond all geographic borders. 

After Jesse returned home from schooling abroad, he reestablished a relationship with high school friend and young producer Kareem ‘Remus’ Burrell (son of Philip ‘Fatis’ Burrell). They began creating and composing music together also, which developed into a Movement as they shared similar views on the social state of Jamaica. 

Blessed with a voice that captures the pain and hunger of a ‘downtrodden’ people; Royal’s militant character and profound lyricism caught the heart of heralded reggae producer, Philip ‘Fatis’ Burrell. Fatis Burrell, affectionately called ‘Father’ had a great and pure impact on the ‘old soul’ of Jesse; as he credits him as an invaluable inspiration and one of the most influential individuals that he has ever encountered.

Working with musicians such as Sly Dunbar, Robbie Shakespeare, Donald Dennis, Earl ‘Chinna’ Smith and Monty Savory; Jesse is currently in the studio putting the final touches on his debut album with producer Kareem Burrell of the XTM.Nation. Jesse Royal has released three mixtapes , Misheni, In Comes The Small Axe and Royally Speaking with Major Lazer. His Debut Album "Lily of The Valley" is now available on all digital platforms.

World of Reggae in one village: REGGAEVILLE
REGGAEVILLE.com is a online music magazine

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