Member Since: 13/03/2007
Band Members: MyGen Profile Generator
Influences: October 17, 2008When reggae artist King-I performed live in the WERS studios with his his Ghetto People Band, it was only natural that the lights be dimmed in order to set the mood. Even during the setup and soundcheck, it was evident that King-I was going to be a soulful performer. He stood in the center of the room with eyes closed, swaying to the music and mouthing the lyrics he would soon sing. King-I literally wears his cultural pride on his sleeve—and on his head for that matter. His brightly swirling head wrap cascades down over his shoulder, and his rastafarian t-shirt continues the Jamaican color scheme of red, yellow and green. Perhaps these vivid colors swaying in the studio are what drew people to stop and watch from the sidewalk, but more than likely it was the smooth reggae sounds pouring out of the station.“Think Twice†was the first song of the set, which the Trinidad and Tobago native passionately performed with his equally passionate band. The group’s sound is open, airy and big. It is easy to feel enveloped in the rhythms and saxophone surrounding you. Though everyone was nodding to the music, King-I kicked the stage presence up a notch with his own grand gestures. Next up were two equally impressive tracks featuring various bass, keyboard and drum solos which showcased the talents of King-I’s band members and friends. “Be Wise,†which he prefaces with a few short words of wisdom: “It’s good to read, however, read between the lines.†He finished with his new single, “The Rise.â€It was his uncle who first introduced him to the reggae culture, King-I said. “Everyone’s always about Bob Marley but it was Peter Tosh for me,†he continued. Other artists he considers to be influential are The Wailers, Yellow Man and Jimmy Cliff. He has had the opportunity to work with all of them. Continually giving “big ups†to everything and everyone, it is clear King-I deeply cares for his friends and community.“It’s not about this fame thing, it’s about a message,†King-I truthfully said. “I’m just a tiny, tiny bit famous . . . I’m humble with a bite,†he continued. And it is true that he does have “bite,†he is a showman with a sense of humor and strong sense of connection to the people of his culture and neighborhood. During the course of the performance, he thanked everyone he could think, and it was evident that he truly meant it.King-I concluded, “I’s a spiritual-type of person, you know—I let the spirit take me over.â€myspace.com/thekingjah-Paige Trubatch
Record Label: unsigned
Type of Label: Indie