Reggae band Dukes of Roots has released the track Feel The Love off their forthcoming debut album.

Group member and guitarist T Rod noted that the April 7 release has been making satisfactory rounds among listeners.

“We are very pleased with the feedback we have been receiving so far. We’ve had some great feedback from peers in the industry who have connected with the message in the song. We also released a lyric video on YouTube that is getting traction,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

The track was produced by Migration Records and Young Pow Productions.

Dukes of Roots also consists of bassist George “Fully” Fullwood, African lead singer Mermans “Mo Faya” Mosengo, Grammy award-winning keyboardist Sean “YoungPow” Diedrick; and Grammy award-winning drummer Courtney “Bam” Diedrick.

Dukes of Roots was formed during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns when T Rod wrote the first draft of the band’s first song titled Try Happy.

This act of creative inspiration brought together artistes from different parts of the world, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Jamaica, and the United States. The project quickly evolved into a full-length album encompassing all the elements of roots reggae while adding a touch of diversity.

“Feel The Love was inspired by the love felt from the Jamaican community in November 2022 when the band was together in Kingston. The words and music came easy when collaborating with good friends in sunshine surrounded by happy loving people”, T Rod added.

While many might have a lot to say about the controversial evolution of reggae music, T Rod believes that the genre is on the right trajectory.

“Reggae music has evolved into one of the most influential genres because of the island’s rhythmic beat and positive messages. It reaches all corners of the globe and connects with people worldwide regardless of race, class or creed. The genre evolved into sub-genres, including different sounds from different parts of the world. Reggae music has stood the test of time,” he said.

He further had a word of advice for other reggae groups.

“Music is art, and any artiste needs to express [him/herself] in the way [he/she] sees fit,” T Rod told the Observer.