KINGSTON, Jamaica – Grammy-winning reggae artiste Kabaka Pyramid says he longs for the days when live events would once again saturate the local entertainment calendar. Emphasising the significance of stage shows, the Contraband singer asserts that live events play a crucial role in shaping aspiring artistes early in their musical journey.

“The first time I performed ‘Well Done’ was at Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records’ live show, and that’s when I knew it would do well. The way the audience reacted was confirmation that I needed to voice the song,” he told Observer Online in a recent interview. “It was a great moment, a good sign to know that I had found the song that would really work in Jamaica. That’s how things used to be done back in the day. We used to write our songs and go to stage shows to test them out, and then go into the studio to record them. Honestly, we need more of that in today’s music.”

“Dem days deh did nice when whole heap a dem show deh was keeping and every weekend yuh did affi come show yuh talent and hold a vibes,” he continued. “We need that today. Different stages, different types of presentations; acoustics, live band. We wah see the yute dem touch inna di dance dem too and test dem thing inna di streets.”

Kabaka Pyramid, who won the 2023 Grammy for his album, ‘The Kalling,’ mentioned that while the number of live shows has increased post-COVID, especially during the just-concluded Christmas season, the industry could benefit from more. He urged his fellow colleagues to take on the task.

“Back in the days, we (artistes) kept some of our own shows. We’re always trying to look for outlets to perform and opportunities to push us forward so there was a certain hunger. I would like to see more of that, especially from the next set of young artistes,” he said.

Meanwhile, the reggae singer states that coming off a great 2023, a lot of planning has gone into ensuring he and his team maintain the momentum. To that end, he says he has a lot in store for his fans this year.

“At the beginning of each year, me and my team sit down and we set goals for each year and we try and hit those targets. Sometimes we hit dem and sometimes we don’t but yuh affi plan. Everything you see happening around the world takes planning,” he said. “You will always see Kabaka Pyramid making moves with or without any big song so just look out for great things this year.”