St Mary is often lauded as the parish that produces the most dancehall stars, but economically it is one of the most challenged.
In Reveal Fast, his latest song, native son Bibidon longs for better days.
Produced by Syn Citi Entertainment, the track was released in late May on the Friends And Foes rhythm.
"Wha' yuh si happen most day is yuh frien' dem a struggle. Mi been through di worst, so wi hope dis song can inspire di youths, not only in St Mary, to get up an' do it," said Bibidon, who is from Highgate, once the parish's commercial hub.
Thanks to thriving banana and sugar industries, St Mary was one of the jewels in Jamaica's crown. The Highgate chocolate plant in Bibidon's hometown was once another beacon of national pride.
For the past 40 years music has been the parish's most fruitful profession. St Mary has produced acts such as Nicodemus, Josey Wales, Capleton, Ninjaman, Lady Saw, and Admiral Tibet, but even that industry is on the decline, according to Bibidon.
"All a di big artiste dem come from St Mary, but yuh don't even a proper studio fi record. Mi haffi guh Portmore when mi a voice," he said.
Bibidon kicked off his recording career last year with Truth, which was followed early this year by Gratitude.
Like Reveal Fast, they are produced by Syn Citi Entertainment.
HOUSE RULES
- We welcome reader comments on the top stories of the day. Some comments may be republished on the website or in the newspaper; email addresses will not be published.
- Please understand that comments are moderated and it is not always possible to publish all that have been submitted. We will, however, try to publish comments that are representative of all received.
- We ask that comments are civil and free of libellous or hateful material. Also please stick to the topic under discussion.
- Please do not write in block capitals since this makes your comment hard to read.
- Please don't use the comments to advertise. However, our advertising department can be more than accommodating if emailed: advertising@jamaicaobserver.com.
- If readers wish to report offensive comments, suggest a correction or share a story then please email: community@jamaicaobserver.com.
- Lastly, read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy