Emerging reggae artiste King Inkosi is looking to spark meaningful conversation with the release of his new single, Cannabis, a hard-hitting cultural anthem highlighting what he describes as the continued unfair treatment of Jamaica’s lower-class herb farmers despite the country’s marijuana decriminalisation laws.

Raised in Manchester, the conscious reggae artiste says the inspiration behind the track came from witnessing firsthand the struggles many ordinary Jamaicans connected to the herb trade have faced over the years.

“Looking back at the history of cannabis in Jamaica and the persecution many people underwent for possession and using it, to where we are now, the only change is in favour of the upper class. The lower class is still being persecuted and prosecuted,” King Inkosi explained.

Through the single, the artiste is advocating for what he believes should be full legalisation that benefits all Jamaicans, rather than opportunities reserved for a select few.

“My message is simple. Cannabis is a herb and not a drug. Legalise it for the benefit of all instead of decriminalising it solely for financial gain,” he said.

King Inkosi approaches the topic from several perspectives, pointing to the herb’s cultural, spiritual, medicinal, and recreational significance within Jamaican society — particularly within the Rastafarian community.

“As an individual who recognises the Rastafarian practices as a cultural way of life and cannabis as a sacrament, as a medicinal herb and as a recreational ingredient, I recognise cannabis in all three perspectives,” he shared.

Despite the sensitive nature of the subject matter, the artiste says he is not overly concerned about potential backlash.

“Maybe just a little controversy from certain groups within the local Jamaican space,” he admitted.

Produced by King Inkosi himself, Cannabis carries what he describes as an “authentic reggae sound,” drawing inspiration from reggae greats such as Garnet Silk, Ini Kamoze, Peter Tosh and Burning Spear.

“I would describe my sound as a reflection of my authentic Jamaican experience,” he said.

The artiste believes that authenticity is what sets him apart from many acts in today’s reggae and dancehall landscape.

“King Inkosi represents the experiences of the people,” he stated.

While discussions are currently underway for a possible EP project, the immediate focus remains on rolling out Cannabis through visuals, live performances, and digital campaigns aimed at maximising the song’s global reach.

“My work on the global stage is not just to entertain but also to educate,” King Inkosi added.