AFTER a three-year break, reggae gospel singer Graypatch is back in the recording studios and is working on his EP Victorious.

In addition to the title song, the seven-track set will also feature inspirational singles including So Bless and Cover Me Jesus.

“While the aim is to broaden my fan base, I really want this EP to be a blessing to the listeners. The world can be heartless and discouraging at times and we are often told that music can be a remedy for the soul. Therefore, I hope these tracks will bring a sense of comfort to whatever obstacle a listener may be facing,” he said.

As a survivor of several bouts of cardiac arrest, Graypatch (given name Ricardo Gibbs) said he can easily attest to God’s goodness in his life, and thus his heart always remained close to the Lord.

Victorious is slated to be released in June and feature the production of Just Easy Records and J Clan Music.

Graypatch, who derived his name from a patch of grey spot in his hair, grew up in the tough inner-city community of Arnett Gardens where hardcore dancehall is often the music of choice. He however said he favoured classical music.

“At about age nine, I was introduced to jazz and developed a great liking for it. It motivated me into wanting to become a musician, so I played the drums for 18 years in the church. I wanted to sing but I never got the chance at church,” he said.

“I later met pianist Harold Butler at Devon House and asked him to play a Nat King Cole selection, and he asked me to sing and I did. That gave me the confidence to venture and perform more,” he added.

In 2007, he made his first studio recording demo with Dennis Rushton of Amazing Grace. He got a big boost in 2009 when he appeared on the small stage at Jamaica Jazz and recorded his first single, a remake of Bobby McFerrin’s Don’t Worry Be Happy.

— Simone Morgan