There is not a lot of reggae in Last Disciple’s hometown of Greenville, South Carolina, but ever since discovering the sounds of Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and Linval Thompson in his youth, he was hooked.

Thompson’s Marijuana is one of the songs that drew Last Disciple to Jamaican culture. Recently, he collaborated with the veteran singer on Smoking Kush, a song that also features dub poet Meeka Nyota.

“Smoking Kush is about the positive effects of herb on the world and people throughout from ancient times until this day. It’s inspiring for artistes and knocks over the divides between the nations, even racism and spiritual wickedness in high and low places,” Last Disciple said in an interview with the Jamaica Observer.

The American artiste made his first of many visits to Jamaica in 2008, but it was not until seven years later that he began recording songs here. Among the acts he befriended is Thompson, best known for songs such as Train to Zion and Look How me Sexy.

Over the years, Last Disciple (real name Brad Brandt) has worked with Jamaican musicians including singer Nadia McAnuff, guitarist Winston Bowen and keyboardist Franklyn “Bubbler” Waul.

“I love and I am honoured to work with Jamaicans, born and raised in the culture, artistes and producers. Jamaica’s music can be imitated but not duplicated,” he said.

Last Disciple has released two albums to date — Babylon Fall and Rise Up. The latter was released in 2021.

-Howard Campbell