Lovers Rock Reggae Taking Over

With dancehall music on the fade away, plagued by unpredictable characters who have bittered the international taste of the business; it is safe to say the time is ripe for Lovers rock Reggae to take center stage.

A sub-genre, birthed from a blend of rocksteady and reggae in the late 70’s, it was the soundscape that conceived legendary hit makers such as Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown, and Beres Hammond.

Lovers Rock became popular in the U.K and Europe during the mid eighties after being incubated under the guise of reggae induced RnB cover versions that led to stars such as Maxi Priest, UB40, Big Mountain, Sanchez, Garnet Silk, Wayne Wonder and Bitty Mclean(to name a few).

The mid nineties saw the unveiling of artists such as Tony Curtis, Thriller U, Singing Melody and Lukie D, now known as the Lovers Rock reggae Quartet L.U.S.T, who individually established themselves as signature artists before merging a few years ago to create a Reggae powerhouse, which has captured the world faster than a rocket to the moon, or rightly said, “Usain Bolt to a Finish Line”.

But it is the new crop of lovers’ rock specialist like Terry Linen, who deservingly, has enjoyed a good run this year. With two concrete chart-toppers, Terry is taking it slow, but making good ground by being consistent. It is a pleasant change from the past.

Da’ville who emerged full nuclear last summer, has kept his pace and is on the way to release another album this Christmas. With 2 solid international hits under his belt, Da’ville has generated the steam to push himself into the mainstream coming this spring, 2009.

Most notable out of the nursery is Courtney John. His sophomore album “Unselfish”, has gained the critical acclaim of being Reggae’s most successful independent album since Tyrone Taylors, “Cottage In Negril, circa 1983.

Much is expected of this young maestro, whose family ties include the incomparable Beres Hammond, and it is tipped that a new album will be ready for the block as early as Easter 2009.

With many females in the genre, very few have stepped up to the plate providing any level of consistency that deems credit. However, they are a few who raise an eyebrow with a note.

Alaine is not one of them. Another failed experiment from the Don Corleone led Vendetta Music camp, she can sing, but her voice is weak, and like Munga has been dosed with Don’s technical touch of vocal magic.

Althea “Da Chick” Hewitt has coughed up a nice single after years of trying to get off the ground, but she sounds unsure of herself. The single is good, but is a bit too academic, in the sense it sounds practiced, not projected.

Bar-bee who barraged her upstart career with Beenie Man, debuted a timeless single entitled, “Missing You”, featuring Junior Kelly that still receives good airplay.
Her latest ballad entitled “I Love You Anyway” is definitely a solid second effort and is receiving love from both the Dancehall and local radio in Jamaica. Some say it’s a take from Alicia Keys, but as in anything creative, inspiration is necessary.

Ce’cile has quietly stepped into the sub-genre capturing the international airwaves with the ultra committed “Waiting”, and the sultry sexy “Ride or Die”. Now a bonafide sex symbol in Europe, sky’s the limit for the diva who is currently promoting her latest album, “Bad Gyal” on the Euro scene as we speak.

Etana, the unverified Queen of Lovers Rock, has release a highly anticipated album entitled “Strong One”. Tinged with a familiar sound it is equally refreshing, and the musical experience is heightened by her emotional connection that is warped in the soundscape of her music. A safe buy, the album will not disappoint, but don’t expect any surprises.

Tessanne and Tami Chynn need not be mentioned. Their musical talent is a reminiscent waste as Susan Couch, Della Manley and the lesser Known Janine whose complacency erodes their consistency, leaving nothing but untouched, yet untouchable gems, despite spurts of international spotlight.

Protégé’ of the Riddim Twins, Sly & Robbie, Cherine Anderson still has not sunk her heels in the business, regardless of her resume’ of remixes with solid international stars such as Brittany Spears and Micheal Franti.

The formula still hasn’t stuck. But she has talent.

With a stable and palatable crop of youngsters, the Lover Rock sub-genre can make its way to the mainstream, and with the veteran Beres Hammond clearing the way… Dancehall got to.. “Step aside now…”

Selah

The Reggae News Agency

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