With February being observed as Reggae Month, reggae artiste I-Maric believes that for reggae and dancehall music to retain their commercial viability on the international market, a lot more work needs to be done.

“I think that for the music to get back that global recognition, the top experienced producers in Jamaica should get back to making good beats and getting the culture artistes to go back to making good songs with positive messages that can uplift and change people’s lives. The radio stations and sound systems also have a big part to play. Our music will not only become viable, commercially it will also change the bad frequency and mindset of our people especially the youths in my beautiful Jamaica,” I-Maric reasoned in a recent interview with Observer Online.

He gave props to the organisers of the annual Reggae Month celebrations, which he says has done a lot for the culture and maintaining its preservation.

“Reggae Month, to me, is a big moment that I look forward to every year. It brings a peaceful essence. Also, it’s the time when we celebrate our musical legends like Bob Marley and Dennis Brown, whose music made a significant impact around the world,” said I-Maric.

He continued, “Reggae music has endured all these years because it sends out positivity, peaceful messages, consciousness and life-related matters that everyone can relate to.”

I-Maric, who presently resides in London, is originally from the tough inner-city community of Payne Land. He pays tribute to his origins with the EP titled Welcome to Kingston, which was released late last year on the Poor People Productions imprint.

“I drew inspiration from all the happy memories I have of having grown up in Payne Land with my mother. It wasn’t all roses but there were some wonderful times despite the struggles. Jamaica has its fair share of problems, especially with crime, but it is still one of the most beautiful and vibrant places in the world. No matter what, I will always love Kingston,” I-Maric shared.

Ras I-Maric, given name Phillip Dunkley, launched his recording career in 2007 with the release of a single titled, Oh Mama. Some of his other songs include Who Feels It Knows, Mi Nuh Like Weh A Gwaan and What Is Wrong Humanity.