Florida-based Jamaican artiste King Swagah has released an inspirational track titled
Ghetto Stars that he hopes will motivate listeners.

Produced by J Sharp, with whom the artiste has been working since 2008, the track was officially released on January 23.

“I wrote this for the poor people worldwide so they can build back their self-esteem. So far, the response has been good, and my long-term goal is to keep doing positive, inspirational, and encouraging music for my fans worldwide. I also want to give back and help out many people,” the artiste, whose given name is Elvis Paisley, said.

The entertainer, who has been a music professional for almost two decades, is known for other tracks such as Journey, Not Giving Up, Harder and Prosperity.

Growing up with a father who owned a sound system and maintaining a close relationship with the legendary producer Jack Ruby — famed for his 1970s productions of Burning Spear — has profoundly shaped King Swagah’s musical journey.

In the meantime, the St Mary-born Ocho Rios High School alumnus is encouraging the emerging crop of artistes to produce more uplifting tracks.

“I’m a 1974 baby, meaning I grew up listening to the 80s and 90s dancehall artistes. From the 2000s it has changed to a more negative message for the people. Still, I’m going to remain positive with this new generation of dancehall artistes. In my own opinion, they just need to start writing some positive music and secure what Bob Marley and others started us out with some good music,” King Swagah said.

— Kediesha Perry