One of Jamaica’s most-respected, live-performance platforms, the Harry J Live Couch Series, returns for Season 6 from January 25 to April 5, 2026, reaffirming its role as an incubator for the island’s evolving sound.

Filmed at the iconic Harry J Recording Studio, the series continues its mission of capturing reggae and Jamaican music in its most intimate, unfiltered form.

The season opens with two-time Grammy-nominated artiste Jesse Royal, whose acclaimed album
No Place Like Home secured a second Grammy nomination in the upcoming awards in the Best Reggae Album category. His appearance anchors a carefully curated line-up that reflects both legacy and progression. His set includes a passionate performance of his songs Likkle Light, No Place Like Home, Home, and Modern Day Judas.

The season also features rising reggae voice Chris Malachai, the genre-fluid Irish artiste Maverick Sabre, powerhouse female vocal newcomers Janeel and Janae, and conscious lyricist Irie Souljah.

Created and produced by Tara Johnson, the Harry J Live Couch Series places emphasis on offering a creative space, energy, and environment as essential elements of musical expression.

“Season 6 is about holding space for artistes to perform honestly,” said Johnson. “…That is the essence of reggae’s longevity. That is why I created this platform; they help preserve culture while supporting the next generation.”

Reflecting on his second Grammy nomination, Jesse Royal shared: “A lot of these songs came together in living rooms and spaces like this [referring to the Harry J Studio]. I wasn’t only recording lyrics; I was capturing energy. To see that energy resonate with people and be acknowledged by the Grammys is truly humbling.”

In alignment with Reggae Month, Season 6 extends beyond performance into cultural impact. New ‘Couch Moments’ short-form clips will spotlight never-before-seen segments from the sessions. In addition, plans are in place to collaborate with a high school in western Jamaica to support its music programme through the provision of additional equipment for the music room after damage resulting from the passing of Hurricane Melissa in October 2025.

The Harry J Collective, which encompasses Jordon Williams on keyboard, Jerome Small on bass guitar, Jevaughn Jones on guitar, Glendon Clarke on drums, and percussionist Stephen Forbes (for Jesse Royal’s episode), enhanced the performances with a diverse reggae sound.

Episodes will be released biweekly on the Harry J Studio YouTube channel, supported by teasers and behind-the-scenes content across social media platforms.

The Harry J Live Couch Series started in 2020 as a tribute to Bob Andy. As a friend of the late Harry Johnson, founder of Harry J Studio, the series provided therapy for music lovers during the COVID-19 pandemic who were unable to experience live shows physically. Over the five-year period it has set itself apart by offering live music performances to audiences globally through a virtual space.

Two-time Grammy-nominated artiste Jesse Royal shares lens time with Tara Johnson, managing director of Harry J Recording Studio and creator of the Harry J Live Couch Series.

Conscious Lyricist Irie Souljah on the famous couch with musicians (from left) Glendon Clarke (drummer), Jerome Small (bass guitar), Jevaughn Jones (guitar), and Jordan Williams (keyboard).