Jabari Lisimba’s life story contains a thread of musical experiences that have catapulted and shaped his career as a reggae artist. It all started in his birthplace of Barbados, at the age of eleven, when he formed a prolific group of rappers and dancers called “The Peace Boys.†Through this group, he realized his innate musical ability and love for the performing arts (including Stilt Walking). Later, Jabari joined the “Pinelands Creative Workshop†and mastered African percussion and Djembe drumming. He performed live with Jeffery (Ife) Wilkinson and “The Tuk Band.†His drumming skills were featured in the albums “Message from Beyond†by John King and “Chant and Talk†by Peter Coppin and Monsterpiece.
In 1998, Jabari Lisimba became a lead vocalist and percussionist in the band “Black Amali.†John (Kojo) Roachford recognized Black Amali's star quality and invited the band to open for a tour in Guyana. Through this band's musical endeavors, he visited many places; to name a few, Canada, New York, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Grenada and England. However, the career defining tour of his life was when he visited Jamaica with King David in 2000. Jabari worked on live recordings with Steelie & Cleevie and met renowned and influential reggae artists like, Mr. Vegas, Papa San, Hawk Eye, Alley Cat, Daddy Rings, Wicker Man, Richie Stevens, Anthony B, Norris man and reggae legend, Bunny Wailer. Jabari recorded with Star Trail Records and outstanding engineers such as Jahson, English and Adoni.
Since his trip to Jamaica, Jabari has recorded three albums and is hoping to get signed so that his music can be heard internationally. His songs contain conscious lyrics, as well as reggae chanting vocals with a background, rhythmic drum base. Jabari believes that his music will “encourage ghetto youths to rise above their situations by maintaining a balance between a healthy self-esteem and respect for humanity.â€
Give thanks for taking the time to read this and considering a new sound.JUNE 2009 UPDATES!!!!!
1. The "Things Change" album is now available for purchase online; Please e-mail
[email protected] to request your copy.
2. Rest in Peace to Mr. George Thoney Burrowes, better known as 'Sonna Burrowes,' Jabari's father who passed away this past winter.3. Be sure to check out the next issue of Reggae Source Magazine which features an exclusive interview from Jabari Lisimba on his new album, "Things Change."4. The Reggae Source gave the album "Things Change" by Jabari Lisimba, 4 out of 5 stars in its album review!!5. Give tanks to Issac from Black Faith for the Angel Cry riddim.Thank you to all Fans for your continued love and support!