What are your earliest memories of Kingston?

Kingston, for me, was actually a bit of a culture shock. Coming from the country where I was used to all the pleasantries — everybody saying ‘good morning’ and ‘good evening’ — I found the people a bit hostile. And city life was so fast… it was just rush, rush, rush.

What do you miss when you’re not in Kingston?

One of the things that I have become accustomed to throughout the years is the energy of Kingston. It’s a wonderful city and it provides me with the balance that is so important.

What are your favourite home comforts?

I love movies. I watch a lot of movies at home and also the game shows and the comedy on television … and of course, boxing. Boxing is my favourite sport. I did a little amateur boxing in the early days and did pretty good at it … until I got a really good one on my chin and that made me think long and hard about a career in the ring. It’s a good thing I had the music to turn to.

What would you do if you were mayor (of Kingston) for a day?

Just a day? Well, I would ensure that proper pedestrian crossings are in place and get restoration work going on the Kingston Harbour. We need to put an education plan in place so that we all understand the significance of having in our possession the seventh largest natural harbour in the world. I would also like to see a remodelling project including downtown Kingston, but that will take more than a day.

Share with us the title of the last book you read.

Change Your Life by Dr Wayne Dyer.

What’s your middle name?

Ezekiel. I am the Prophet Ezekiel. I suppose, as a parent, when you name your child at birth there must be something about that child why a particular name is chosen. I would like to think that I have lived up to my name.

And the last bit of music that stirred your soul?

Actually, it’s a song from my new album called I Rise. It’s the signature of where I am today in my life — spiritually and mentally.

What was your last bit of retail therapy?

I bought myself a pair of socks. It was a very nice pair of brown socks … I bought it in England.

Which cologne are you currently splashing?

I am wearing musk oil. I am more of an oil person. I like to rub the pure oil on my skin, the one that’s straight from the flower, with no alcohol or any other additive. I buy the oils in Egypt, or sometimes Morocco.

Which is your preferred beverage?

Water. I love water — to drink it, to swim in it. I have a water purifier which purifies the water for drinking, for taking medicine, for washing food. It gives you alkaline and acidic water, depending on the use. Even when I’m on tour, my water purifier travels with me.

What upsets you?

Injustice and betrayal.

Share with us your new projects.

I am working on a new album which is called Existence. It’s a big title because really and truly, existence never ends. It explores our existence as human beings in this particular time — the spiritual, social, environmental — all with a positive outlook.

Name your favourite ‘chill’ spots in the Caribbean

There are places in St Kitts, Grenada, Tortola and Cuba that I really enjoy. But my favourite spots to chill out are in St Ann, St Mary and Portland where there are amazing rivers and waterfalls that provide the perfectly natural and tranquil background designed especially for me.

What’s your advice to a first-time visitor to Kingston?

Enjoy it. Kingston is a city like most other cities. It’s busy, it’s cosmopolitan, full of great energy and people. Get a guide and explore Kingston. There’s something here for everyone.

What’s your philosophy?

You can get it if you really want.