Mexican reggae artiste Jah Fabio has been ‘jammin’ since he flew into Jamaica on February 1 to have a good time Reggae Month.
Although he is been visiting the island for greater than 20 years, this journey marks a particular milestone, because it’s the primary time he is introduced the Mexican reggae band, Antidoping.
“I really feel actually glad to be performing within the birthplace of reggae music. It is greater than a dream come true,” he shared. “It is my second yr acting at Bob Marley’s present, and the individuals loved my efficiency.” What stunned Jah Fabio essentially the most, nonetheless, was the thrilling reception from locals, which makes him really feel like he is heading in the right direction.
“I actually by no means anticipated that the individuals right here would love my music. I got here to carry out so individuals may vibe, however the response I get is known as a blessing as a result of individuals like it. Actually and really, I by no means dreamed of being a part of the music fraternity in Jamaica. My dream was to return to Jamaica, see the studios, and report, however to be part of it, that is a blessing.”
Born in Guadalajara–a metropolis extra well-known for mariachi and tequila than reggae, Jah Fabio’s ardour for Jamaican music started within the 90’s, listening to dancehall.
“The very first thing in my ear within the mornings, I used to be listening to Shabba Ranks, Papa San, Buju Banton, Chaka Demus and Pliers as a result of I favored the style at the moment,” he recalled with amusing. “I did not perceive, however I beloved the music and I favored the look. At the moment, I wished to be an expert baller. Really, I performed third division in an expert crew. So mi a great baller enuh.”
The artiste, given title Fabio Alejandro Velasco Campos, stated that for him, Rasta is a salvation.
“It is not solely the music or the message. That’s the reason in my lyrics, I do not confine individuals to be Rasta to like reggae. The music is for everyone, and that’s a part of the message that Bob Marley put in his music.”
This journey, Jah Fabio immersed himself within the tradition past the stage. He visited Linstead, the place he distributed books at a secondary faculty’s Spanish Day celebration, and introduced volleyballs to Paradise, a volleyball crew he sponsors. He even laced up his soccer boots in Tivoli Gardens for a pleasant match between Mexicans and Jamaicans. He additionally recorded a dancehall monitor at Large Yard Studio and shot the accompanying music video in Tivoli Gardens, the place he loved interacting with the youngsters.
“I’ve seen Capleton’s present and Sizzla, and it was a great vitality. Seeing the individuals come out and have a good time Reggae Month was refreshing.” He stated bringing his band to Jamaica was an necessary step in sharing reggae’s spirit throughout borders.
“I do not like coming to Jamaica and saying, ‘I am the one-of-a-kind in Mexico doing reggae.’ I need to share as a result of it is necessary [and] that manner, you retain the tradition.”
Band members Kenji (guitarist), Peppe (singer), Rojerio (saxophonist), and Viego (percussionist) have been all thrilled to be a part of the Jamaican reggae expertise.
“I’m pleased to be in Jamaica, particularly throughout Reggae Month. It is an amazing alternative, and all of us are excited to even play with Bongo Herman,” Kenji stated, beaming. The band recorded at Kingston’s famed Harry J Studio, a cornerstone of reggae historical past. Tara Johnson, managing director of the studio, spoke concerning the significance of getting worldwide artistes like Jah Fabio and Antidoping report there.
“Reggae has all the time been a global factor. The legends and icons from the 70’s paved the way in which for it to be world. The [sound] was created in that point to make sure our nation is uncovered all around the world. It has consistently advanced, but it surely’s additionally been constant in the way it resonates in several corners of the world. Reggae is a present from Jamaica to the world, and that is why they like it a lot.” Johnson was additionally impressed by Antidoping’s sound.
“Reggae Month has been evolving and rising yearly, and extra individuals are coming to share this expertise. It’s totally warming, and I am grateful to see how far reggae’s affect has reached.”
Jah Fabio stated that reggae in Mexico lags “10 to fifteen years behind”, noting that Mexicans are extra drawn to old style artistes like Papa Michigan and Yellowman, however do not know the fashionable dancehall acts. He hopes to bridge the hole.
“If I do not come to Jamaica every other time of the yr, I’ve to return for Reggae Month. Mi love Jamaica and mi love reggae,” he stated.
