Our little island of Jamaica is so influential and rich in culture, that it has been impacting the world for years; from the humanitarianism of our national hero Marcus Garvey to our legendary music culture paved by Reggae greats such as Bob Marley.
Despite the impact of our culture overseas, it seems foreign entities are more inclined to recognize Dancehall and Reggae newcomers rather than the local industry.
Today, international entertainment news site, Complex UK highlighted 10 Jamaican artistes to watch for 2019. These artistes are Jane MacGizmo, labelmates Sevana and Lila Ike, Royal Blu, Tessellated, Naomi Cowan, Dee Dre, Iotosh, Blvk Hero and NeeQah.
Reggae singer Royal Blu, in an interview with the Zee on Thursday, said he agreed that local artists do not necessarily gain recognition locally until they are acknowledged overseas.
That was Reggae singer Royal Blu. He also shared how he felt about being featured on Complex UK.
Jane MacGizmo is featured on Koffee’s Rapture EP on the Blazin’ track, Sevana is an artist under Protoje’s collective In.Digg.Nation, who rose to fame through her appearance on one of Jamaica’s talent shows in 2008, Tessellated joined forces with Amindi K. Fro$t and Valleyz to produce 2017’s summer anthem “Pine and Ginger”, Naomi Cowan is the daughter renowned gospel singers Carlene Davis and Tommy Cowan and is the lovely voice behind Paradise Plum.
NeeQah is a rising name in dancehall, steadily making her way to the top following he breakout single “Ms. Melanin”, Blvk Hero is not only a reggae and dancehall artiste, but he also raps.
The list was curated by Sharine Taylor, a Jamaican living in Canada.