Double Tiger drops soulful single featuring Sly & Robbie
Easy Star Records artiste and producer Double Tiger (aka Jay Spaker) is back with a powerful new single, Yearning, marking his first release since 2020’s acclaimed The Journey.
The track, out July 25, rides atop previously unreleased rhythms laid down by reggae legends Sly & Robbie, recorded in Kingston, Jamaica, and mixed in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
The song also features horn arrangements by Lee Hamilton (John Brown’s Body, Double Tiger) and is paired with a deep dub version mixed by Craig Welsch aka Dub Fader of 10 Ft Ganja Plant.
“Being that it is such an honour to sing on Sly & Robbie rhythms, I was initially a bit intimidated, honestly,” said Spaker. “But as I stepped into the booth that first night, a feeling came through that was effortless and full of vibes. When I felt the energy coming from Sly & Robbie’s playing I just composed the lyrics and melody in one rough take. What an honour to be able to create alongside my musical heroes. Rest in power to the mighty Robbie Shakespeare.”
Best known for his decade-long work with progressive reggae powerhouse John Brown’s Body, Spaker has toured internationally alongside artistes like Rebelution, Chronixx, Slightly Stoopid, Stick Figure, Morgan Heritage, Dirty Heads, Thievery Corporation, and many more.
He also co-founded Dub-Stuy Records, and has collaborated with a who’s-who of reggae luminaries, including Luciano, Johnny Osbourne, Lutan Fyah, Omar Perry, Eek-A-Mouse, Scientist, Rankin Joe, Brother Culture, and of course, Sly & Robbie.
His debut full-length Sharp & Ready debuted at #3 on the iTunes Reggae Chart and #5 on the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart, while 2020’s The Journey reached #2 and #4 respectively, and was submitted for Grammy Award consideration.
The Journey was spotlighted on the Hulu series High Fidelity’s soundtrack.
Whether performing solo or with his full band, Double Tiger’s live show is a burning blend of modern soul roots reggae, early dancehall, and UK-style dub sensibility. His vocal approach moves from singjay style to rapid-fire militancy, covering love songs, anthems, and social commentary — anchored by a pulsing rhythm section and vibrant horn arrangements that keep crowds engaged and chanting.
