Prezident Brown

An unapologetic purveyor of roots-reggae, Prezident Brown has proudly carried the genre's flag for over 30 years. In late July, the self-described chanter's latest album, Roots Hop Reggae (In Your Box) is scheduled for release.

The Sleeping Giant (Wake Up), the 13-song set's lead single, is earmarked for release on June 28. To promote both, he starts a tour of the United States West Coast and Pacific Northwest on June 15th at Laurel Park in Santa Cruz, California.

“The message behind The Sleeping Giant (Wake Up) is: retreat and deep sleep provides the best rest so that man (can) wake up recharged, lit and re-inspired to do his work/duty" Prezident Brown explained.

He co-produced the song with guitarist Tuff Lion and bassist Mony Lujuan, members of the I-Sound Band. Like Prezident Brown, they live in California which is the traditional home of roots-reggae in the US.

That region has also been his happy stomping ground for many years. Five of the seven shows on his upcoming tour are in California, with the others in Seattle and Sandy, Oregon.

"I am popular on the West Coast and Pacific Northwest because I think when I first came, I made a lasting impression on the people with the positive and encouraging songs I chant and the laid-back demeanor that I carry it with" said Prezident Brown.

Born in Clarendon parish, central Jamaica, he 'came out' during the 1990s roots-revival in his homeland. That surge was led by a phalanx of spiritual acts such as Garnet Silk, Tony Rebel, Yasus Afari, Everton Blender and Kulcha Knox.

Songs like Micro Chip, To Jah Only and Blow Your Nose endeared Prezident Brown to an audience outside of Jamaica. Roots Hop Reggae (In Your Box) is his first album since I Sound is From Creation, released in 2012.

"It’s different from my previous albums, this one has elements of hip hop grooves flavored with roots-reggae, dancehall and a jazz vibe" he said.