With so many artists out there trying to make their mark in the music industry, many people ask, “What makes you different?” Some answer back with style and grace, others solely rely upon the written/spoken words of their lyrics, hoping to influence the minds of today’s youth with fresh ideals. Despite whatever route they may take, being more than just a dot in this world definitely takes one thing – diversity. Although his professional music career didn’t really started until the age of 20, Robert Alexander Wilson, also known as Maddadan, was heavily influenced by the arts. His diversity has led him on a path of becoming a strong prospect in the music industry, not only in the genre of reggae, but being apt to transfer his experiences and styles to other genres such as Rock, Rap and R&B. Someone who is able to transition so with much ease is saying a lot; not only about their talent, but their character as well. As cliché as it may sound, Maddadan is man on a mission, and he will not disappoint those who are constantly in search for something daring and unique. 

Maddadan was born in the United States of America, but raised like a true Jamaican. His love for music has been with him before he could even walk. He grew up to be a jack-of-all-trades, pursuing his interests in the mediums of art, music, film and more. Before experimenting with reggae, he had his success in the alternative rock genre as a guitarist and vocalist in a local band. That experience added more drive and determination for him to make it as an artist.

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.

This is the official SoundCloud for the legendary Jamaican reggae artist Buju Banton. Follow and stay tuned in for the latest and greatest releases from Buju!

No Sleep Records is an independent record label based in Huntington Beach, CA and home to some of underground music's best emerging talent. Formed in 2006 by Chris Hansen, No Sleep began as a project to bring back originality and uniqueness to a seemingly watered-down scene, and has quickly risen to become one of the most respected labels in the industry.

Years after its inception, No Sleep continues to push the boundaries of music with a diverse lineup of innovative acts that don't necessarily fit any single genre, but instead are out to cut their own path. From La Dispute and Touche Amore to Balance and Composure and Into It. Over It., the label has become one of the scene's most coveted labels for bands to call home.

Series of profiles of people who are currently making headlines. Broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on Saturdays at 7pm.

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