Imain looks to Uplife
UP-AND-COMING, Canada-based reggae/hip-hop artiste Imain is now fine-tuning the tracks for his sophomore album Uplife, with an accompanying DVD.
“It’s 40 per cent complete,” said the 32-year-old. “Inspiration in the cold takes a lot, but I get it done.”
Produced by Reel Music Group (RMG), the 11-track set is scheduled for a Christmas release.
According to Imain, Uplife is Jamaican-style “flavoured with hip-hop sound and delivery”.
“I would like to attract a Jamaican fan base, especially with the smooth R&B/hip-hop styles we used for the album,” he said.
Uplife is a follow-up to his 2012 set The Sample.
According to Imain, that set — produced on the Deuce Vi2ion/Third World Council label — made an impact in the Philippines.
Imain (given name Duane Jermaine Barham) said his biggest challenge is being taken seriously as a reggae/hip-hop artiste, but he’s determined to carve out his niche.
“Fads are in nowadays, as talent, lyrics are out the window. We need real oneness in the music scene,” he said.
Born in Heathsfield, St Elizabeth, Imain is a past student of Calabar High School. He migrated to Canada in 1988.
His releases include Good Ways, Just Love Me, Toronto and Libra Life.
— Cecelia Campbell-Livingston
