Jah Reefa set to make mark
SINGJAY Jah Reefa is among a new generation of entertainers emerging from St Thomas.
The up-and-coming artiste hopes to make his mark with the track Loyalty Over Royalty. Released last week, the single is produced on the Rapid Burst Record label.
“It’s an anthem pointing out that I understand that nothing in life comes easy… Money can’t change we, because we are loyal to those who are loyal to us,” the 23-year-old singjay told the Jamaica Observer.
St Thomas has had a rich musical history. It has produced artistes including Bushman, Natty King and Prophecy. Similarly, Tarrus Riley, who was born in the United States, spent his formative years there. Jah Reefa, whose given name is Desmond Brown, graduated from Seaforth High in 2007.
He said he was inspired by hardcore lyrics of dancehall deejay Bounty Killer as well as his older brother Barrington ‘Koolant’ Brown. Koolant was lead singer for Bob Marley’s still travelling Wailers band.
Bassist Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett is the leader for that outfit. Jah Reefa said throughout his career, Bounty Killer sought to give young artistes a break in the industry.
“I think he is the baddest thing to ever hold a mike. I like the fact that he is always willing to help and guide young, upcoming artistes. He is just naturally talented and unselfish,” he said.