Stalwarts of reggae have consistently bemoaned a lack of respect for their contribution to the music over the years. Singer Empress Ayeola salutes unheralded heroes on her latest album which was released on August 25.

Empress Ayeola & The Legends hears the London-based artiste collaborating with a number of famous artistes and musicians. Recording sessions for the set started in 2017.

“While I was in London the idea came to me, not just to have legends who are living in Jamaica on the album but some of whom are in London also, that have paved the way for upcoming artistes like myself. They needed to be recognised for their works now and not when they’re gone to big them up!” she exclaimed.

Most of the studio sessions took place in Jamaica with veteran musicians including guitarists Earl “Chinna” Smith and Winston “Bo Pee” Bowen, drummers Sly Dunbar and Leroy “Horsemouth” Wallace, bassists Robbie Shakespeare, Chris Meredith and Flabba Holt, and keyboardists Lloyd “Obeah” Denton and Sidney Mills.

Bobby Digital, Colin “Bulby” York and Carlton “Dillie” McLeod are some of the producers who worked on the 13-song album, which is Empress Ayeola’s third.

Smith shares the mic with her on Garvey, That One features Beres Hammond while Yellowman’s distinctive toast can be heard on Secret Love.

Empress Ayeola is solo on some of the songs such as Legends Salute.

Born in London to Jamaican parents, Empress Ayeola returned to Jamaica at age two and was raised and educated in Manchester. At high school, her music teacher and mentor was Sonia Spence, who had a handful of hit songs during the 1970s.

Her previous albums, Isat Innat and Straight to The Point, are heavy on roots-reggae. She is pleased with finally delivering a project that is close to her heart.

“I feel good that I was able to complete this album from 2020 even though I’m just releasing it now, and also that the legends endorsed it makes me feel so blessed,” said Empress Ayeola.

Howard Campbell