BREAKING into the mainstream market has proved to be quite elusive for 52-year-old singer Father Culture. But he is not giving up.

The roots-reggae artiste, who made his recording debut in the early ’90s, is hoping his latest singles — It’s A Shame and Put On Your Clothes — will give his career a big boost.

“Back then it was hard to find somebody who could find time to help me in my career. Mi used to get riddims and voice fi producer and dem put down the song, but I’m not the type to pressure people. Mi see some youths do it and get through, but mi neva did a go bow. Right now is the most recording mi ever do in my career. A the best of Father Culture this, right now,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

Both singles are produced by Garnett “Bobby” Pottinger and will be featured on Father Culture’s second album, set for release in August. The videos for the tracks are now online, and he said the reception has been good, contrary to that of his debut single, Flesh.

“I’m getting good support; it’s kicking up some views and thumbs up. Mi sing Put On Your Clothes cause mi see all weh a gwaan roun mi wid the woman dem. Woman bring we come yah, if dem let we down, dem let the world down. Some people against the song, but sometimes when you know you a do something wrong you ago get a beating for it,” he said.

He shared goals of global success, but says a lack of radio play is a major challenge. Despite this, he remains positive.

“Mi born fi do this; the world ago know my name. Mi is a positive person and mi write lyrics based on life. Mi nah bun out nobody, mi just waan people do better. Di youths listen to artistes more than dem madda, fadda and government, so we have a powerful platform. When the big war did a gwaan between PNP and JLP in the 70s, Michael Manley and Edward Seaga haffi draw fi Bob Marley fi calm di youths. Every artiste caan sing the same ting, but just know righteousness is key.”

Father Culture, given name Franklin Dayes, grew up in St Ann and Grants Pen in St Andrew. He lists Capleton, Bob Marley and Peter Tosh as his idols. He released his debut album, Rising Son, five years ago.