EVEN though Bahamian reggae singer Smokie has never visited Jamaica, he continues to receive local traction for his music. His latest single is Caribbean Wine.

“Reggae is in my blood. I’ve been listening to reggae all my life,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

“People know me for this type of music, and I hope I find favour with my fans and gain some new ones as well,” he added.

The track, produced by OMO productions, was released on Valentine’s Day.

Smokie (given name Valentino Bethel) was born in Nassau, The Bahamas, and attended C H Reeves Junior High and later R M Bailey High School in that country.

The artiste has captivated a wide audience and has travelled to places like Japan, South Korea and Bermuda to showcase his musical talent. Smokie is focused on sharing his inspirational music with the Caribbean and the world at large.

“I was set to make my debut in Jamaica but COVID-19 took us all by surprise and that delayed my arrival to the island, but 2023 holds high prospects for a regional tour,” he said.

His musical influences include Beres Hammond, Jah cure, Tarrus Riley, Chris Martin and Romain Virgo. Meanwhile, his other tracks include Waylin, Party Time, and Can’t Stay Away.

Waylin in particular has catapulted his career since its August 2022 release.