KINGSTON, Jamaica — For veteran music producer and artiste manager, Richard Roache, it has always been his vision to join foundation artistes with newer acts in what he has dubbed ‘musical solidarity.” In his eyes, the partnership can only spell good for the local music landscape, especially as Jamaican artistes continue to seek international stardom.

Roache who has released approximately three full rhythms since the start of the year, told OBSERVER ONLINE that so far, he has managed to reach his goal, pairing artistes such as Leroy Sibbles, Anthony B, Capleton with fresh acts like Tearah, Krysie, Prince Talib, Cyco Flamz and Cartadon.

“I have always wanted to bridge the gap between older generation and new, through my work. I think the unity would work wonders for the industry. If yuh look at my Reggae Genesis project, to have some of the great Lovers Rock artistes like Leroy Sibbles, Anthony B, Pressure alongside the new guns like Tearah who is a great new artiste, Prince Talib and Ethiopian, is a joy,” he said.

“For me it’s all about balance in the music especially when we working with authentic Jamaican sounds. I wanna show that not only do the newer generation appreciate where the music coming from, but also that they can fit in it. I wish I had the opportunity to get some of the ‘trending’ new acts on it because that would have just really sent the message home but we all now red tape exists in music and you just have to work around that as best as possible,” Roache added.

Roache, who recently released another rhythm, dubbed the Appraisal Riddim, said he not only wants to put old and new acts on one project but also wants to modernize some of the older beats to concoct something that gives off both fresh and authentic vibes.

“Music is all about reinventing oneself. I want to take authentic dancehall beats and modernize them, give them a fresh spin and add all the acts to them that will bring the music to life in a new way,” he said. “When you modernize sounds, you show that, yes, Generation Z can deliver authentic music on foundation dancehall beats.”

Roache’s Appraisal Riddim was produced by Suku from Ward 21 along with Matthew Gentles and features the likes of Beenie Man, Capelton, G Whizz and Delly Ranx. He expressed that since its release, the project has been getting overwhelming feedback, especially on the international circuit.

“The riddim has been doing well. It’s been getting a lot of support locally but the bulk of the feedback has been coming from the international market. They love the mix of old and new and have expressed that the songs on the riddim makes them feel good and gives them a sense of nostalgia, taking them back to a time when the music swept their souls,” he said.

“I just want to continue on this mission I have put myself on because I think the local entertainment industry needs it. We need all our artistes, both foundation and modern acts. All of them joining forces can really do wonders for the music.”