Canada-based reggae artiste Knotty Royal is paying tribute to Jamaica’s history, culture, and natural beauty with his latest single, Doctor Bird, recorded on the popular Hill and Gully Riddim.

The inspiration for the song dates back to a visit to Jamaica in 2010, when a relative shared stories about Christopher Columbus’ arrival on the island. The story remained with him for years and resurfaced when he heard the Hill and Gully Riddim.

“That story stuck to me like cedar stain. When I heard the riddim, the story and the music came together in my mind,” he said.

Through Doctor Bird, Knotty Royal highlights Jamaica’s influence on the world while celebrating the island’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural legacy.

“I want listeners to understand that Jamaica is a positive force in the world. People look to us for positive vibes, and our landscape and culture are beautiful and incomparable,” he explained.

The artiste said the Hill and Gully Riddim immediately connected with him because of its authentic Jamaican feel and its reflection of the country’s “Out of Many, One People” identity.

Knotty Royal has also expressed hopes that acclaimed producer Stephen McGregor, better known as Di Genius, will officially endorse the song.

“Music is both entertainment and business. When those two things come together, great things can happen,” he said.

Since its release, Doctor Bird has received encouraging feedback from fans, with some suggesting it should be entered in the 2026 Jamaica Festival Song Competition.

Living in Canada has not diminished his connection to Jamaica. The artiste revealed that he regularly listens to Jamaican radio stations and stays closely connected to developments in the local music scene.

His musical journey has been fueled by a lifelong love of reading, prayer, and music. While building a reggae career in the diaspora has its challenges, he believes Jamaica remains the ultimate proving ground for reggae and dancehall artistes.

“If you buss in Jamaica, you buss in the world,” he said.

Knotty Royal also believes the popularity of the Hill and Gully movement reflects a growing appreciation for authentic Jamaican culture and positive music.

Beyond Doctor Bird, he is working on several new singles, including Rip & Run Off, Learn Time, Motivation, and Run. He is also continuing to promote his 2024 debut album, Holy Mountain.

Looking ahead, Knotty Royal hopes to secure greater radio exposure and expand his audience internationally while continuing to create music that reflects his faith, culture, and Jamaican identity.

Doctor Bird is available on major streaming platforms, including YouTube and Spotify.