Reggae singer Solomon “Fyah Mawi” Stephens says he is optimistic about his upcoming album Rome Don’t Want I Speak.

Slated to be released in January, he said the album will consist of 10 roots-reggae track.

“I have high hopes for it as the message is very hard- hitting and will leave the listeners in deep mediation. It touches on a range of topics including division, love, war and other burning issues,” he told Jamaica Observer.

In addition to the title track are songs, including I’m Not Fighting, 50 80, I-rator, and People Dying.

The Rastafarian singer said although he has high hopes for all the singles, but he is especially excited about I-rator.

“This song was inspired by the Emperor and Empress crowning in union in 1930 so the song was written to celebrate their coronation,” he said.

Rome Don’t Want I Speak is produced by Menen Records.

“The title song is another strong track that speaks about the loss of our culture and identity and our stolen history,” he said.

Born in Kingston, Stephens said he grew up in a period when Jamaica was divided along political lines.

“I lost my brother when he was just 15 years old. I then got the opportunity to leave Jamaica for the UK to make a fresh start. However, the same reason I fled from Jamaica was very evident there… it was a lot of division,” he said.

Stephens said he would later use music as an outlet to express deep concerns for the level of poverty, war and senseless killings.

“My music is focused on building bridges and tearing down fences. We need unity and role models to guide and inspire this generation, and I am hoping that my music will make a positive change,” he said.

— Simone Morgan-Lindo