US-BASED reggae hopeful Mwata Modola is setting his sights on Jamaica’s music landscape as he promotes his latest single Garrison — a track he says reflects the realities of growing up amid hardship and the lessons learned along the way.

Born in the United States to Jamaican parents, Mwata Modola says music has always been part of his DNA.

The artiste previously pursued music under the moniker Bones but has since reintroduced himself to the industry using his birth name — a move he describes as part of a personal and artistic rebrand.

The change comes after a period of reflection following a 14-year incarceration, which he attributes to youthful immaturity. Now back in society, he said the responsibility lies with him to demonstrate that he has truly turned his life around.

“I believe the onus is now on me to prove that I’ve been rehabilitated,” he said, noting that music has become his primary vehicle for doing so.

According to the entertainer, his artistry will be heavily rooted in lived experiences, with Garrison drawing inspiration from his own upbringing and the negative influences that can accompany life in inner-city communities.

He believes the track’s message will resonate with listeners who have faced similar circumstances.

Currently on parole in the United States, Mwata Modola explained that travel restrictions have prevented him from visiting Jamaica to promote the single at first hand — a challenge he admits has made the promotional push more difficult.

“It’s definitely difficult trying to push the music from here, especially given my circumstance. Jamaica is the headquarters of reggae and dancehall and so you have to be able to connect with that crowd in a real way if you want to be taken seriously,” he said.

“I plan to do that as soon as I’m able to, because my music and the message needs to be heard. I’ve matured and evolved a lot. My mindset has changed. I believe when you’re incarcerated, it’s up to you to be better when you’re out. I’m more disciplined now, more aware, and definitely more appreciative of life and the blessings that I have,” the artiste continued.

The single forms part of a larger project as Mwata Modola is currently preparing to release an album in May.

He says the upcoming body of work will reflect his determination to succeed despite the challenges he has faced.

According to the artiste, his time behind bars has only strengthened his drive to make something meaningful of his life.

While putting the finishing touches on the project, he is also looking ahead to a major performance opportunity. The entertainer is slated to appear on the stage at Best of the Best Music Fest in Miami on May 24, where he hopes to introduce his story and sound to a wider audience.

“I’m looking forward to putting the world on notice and making an impact,” he said.