FOR 30 years, drummer Emanuel Walsh has taken the bandstand in many countries, backing some of reggae’s top acts.

Now, he has moved centrestage as a singer on his latest production, One.

Although the selfproduced ballad is expected to be released later this year in Japan, Walsh is in Jamaica pushing it.

After years of establishing himself as a musician in reggae-mad Japan, he is looking for some recognition at home.

“I’m looking for a hit in Jamaica, straight up. I’m pretty much successful in Japan but Jamaica don’t really catch on to mi soun’,” he said.

Walsh also recorded a remix of One with roots deejay Jah Mason. He is hoping to push Work, a follow-up single, in Jamaica.

One is included on Walsh’s new album, Nuclear Knocking, which is scheduled for release in Japan in May.

Born in St Mary, Walsh’s introduction came at the Alpha Boys School in the Jamaican capital. Later, he migrated to the United States and worked the New York City club scene.

He became an in-demand drummer, working with a number of artistes including Pablo Moses, the Mighty Diamonds, Garnet Silk and John Holt.

Since 1988, Walsh has been based in Japan where he is a regular on the studio and live show scene. Two years ago, he formed the Black Blood band with bass player Ian Knight.

Their first album, Transfusion, was released last year.