DOMINICAN reggae singer Oriel recently collaborated with Richie Stephens on the single Give Me a Reason, which has been released in Jamaica.

“I’m very happy about the song because it’s a very good song, the lyrics are powerful and uplifting, the rhythm is awesome. Working with Mr Stephens was a great experience,” said Oriel.

Give Me a Reason is produced by Afar Music Group and co-written by Oriel and Stephens. It is the former’s biggest thrust for a hit in Jamaica.

“The feedback that we have received about the song is awesome,” said Oriel.

Born Oriel Barry 30 years ago, he was part of a marching band and an active member of his school and church choirs. He got seriously involved in music when he migrated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and helped form the Vybz Machine sound system in 2005.

After working as a club DJ and studio engineer, he moved into music production, working with Bugle, Raine Seville, RDX, Voicemail, Jahmeil, Anthony Cruz, Konshens, Wayne Wonder and Chris Martin.

His EP, Confidence, was released in late 2013.