Jah Cure: True Reflections

• Jamaican reggae star Jah Cure is regarded as the ‘High Priest of Reggae’ in the genre’s circles and has a number of hits topping music charts across the world. JOHN MUCHIRI caught up with him during his tour in Kenya.

Is this your first time in Africa?

Yes it is and I am very excited about it. It is like a dream come true. We all know that we have roots in Kenya and it is a big privilege to be here.

Then why has it taken you this long to get here?

I think everything has its own time. It could have happened earlier, but I have been patient and I feel good about this trip. I think this is the right time to be here.

This is more like a spiritual fulfilment; it’s not about the money I’m going to make on this trip.

Talking of money, how much are you being paid to perform in Kenya?

I’m not in a position to disclose that my brother.

Where else have you performed other than Jamaica?

I have performed in countries in Europe and other Caribbean countries. I think I will have more African shows from now on.

How many albums do you have so far?

I’m not the kind of artiste that records 20 albums within five years. I have only five albums so far. I have been taking things slow, doing one song one at a time.

I don’t think I’m going anywhere soon. In fact, I feel I will live for a very long time. So I am here to stay, that’s why I’m not rushing to do many albums within a short time.

Who inspires you in the music industry?

It definitely has to be Beres Hammond. He recorded my first song and he has been my mentor all these years I have been in the music industry.

Reggae music has been associated with violence among the youth and reggae lovers. What message do you have for Kenyan reggae music lovers?

If they listen to my music, I preach peace and consciousness. Reggae music is all about peace and unity in the society, those who fight are not real reggae lovers.

Are you planning to do any collaboration with local artistes?

I know Kenyans and Africans at large love reggae music, so if there’s an opportunity for me to collabo with any Kenyan musician, that will be alright with me.