Words by LargeUp Crew—
Marley’s Mellow Mood has come up with a new way to “free the people with music,” launching a weekly free music download series, co-curated by LargeUp, dubbed Tune in Tuesdays. Each Tuesday, this link features a download of a new single from a different artist.
This week’s featured track is “Ready Fi Di Road,” from Kabaka Pyramid. Alongside peers and collaborators Protoje and Chronixx (the three have just dropped a new single “Selassie Souljahz” alongside Sizzla), Kabaka is a central figure in a new movement in Jamaican music that’s heavily influenced—but hardly limited—by roots reggae. Coming off the release of his 2011 EP, Rebel Music, Kabaka was recently featured on LargeUp’s Top 10 Artists to Watch for 2013.
Sample/download “Ready Fi Di Road” below, and read on for a quick interview with Kabaka.
Describe your sound in 20 words or less…
Spiritual, revolutionary, and intricate lyricism within a fusion of roots reggae and classic hip-hop.
What role does your heritage play in your music?
The fruit is a result of the environment and the seed. Seeking and learning about my heritage has been a major shaping factor in my life and, by natural extension, my music. Repatriation to and a general reconnection with Africa are major themes of my message.
What can we expect to hear from you in the next year?
We will be releasing new music from our label, Bebble Rock, as well as work done with other producers locally and abroad. You can expect more videos, and we’ll be touring Europe and the USA this year.
Where did you get the idea and inspiration to write “Ready Fi Di Road”?
When I wrote this song, we were working on the Rebel Music EP and, after I built the riddim, I was very excited by the fact we finally found the sound we were looking for musically. I wanted to show the world that I was “ready for the road” and also what I was about musically. The mission of spreading positivity and conscious awakening is key within the fiery lyricism.
What are your ultimate ambitions as an artist?
Ultimately, I want to write or inscribe about the nature of the universe and the evolution of consciousness in a way that it can steer future generations towards harmony and unity.