I Am Reggae Muzik, says Kwame Ultimate
Recording artiste Kwame Ultimate is gearing up for the release of a brand new track, titled I Am Reggae Muzik.
The track is slated for an official release today, September 29.
“The song is about our musical culture and what it represents at its core despite repeated bouts of marginalisation. This music of ours which has spawned and influenced so many genres, simply isn’t getting due respect,” the artiste told the Jamaica Observer’s Splash.
Even though the song was not officially released, it has been making rounds online and to some local disc jockeys so far.
It will be featured on his upcoming album, which is scheduled for an October 27 release. As he prepares for the tracks official release, the artiste is focused on getting the message across as effectively as possible.
“The lyrics are about our life, so I’m not necessarily depending on likes or views as I highlight in the song. I just want to make sure my fans understand the meaning and enjoy the vibe,” the artiste said.
Currently based in the United Kingdom, Kwame Ultimate has been involved in music since childhood and has since transitioned into his professional career.
“My music is original reggae and dancehall music. It still speaks of Garvey, Africa, love, ghetto reality, and hope for better tomorrows. I’m a poet at heart, so my music is very lyrical,” he added.
Originally from Trench Town in St Andrew, his focus is on getting the authentic sound out to the world, to receive the recognition and respect it deserves. He’s bringing awareness to the annual British music event, The MOBO [Music of Black Origin] Awards, where he believes there is a discrepancy in the genres being highlighted.
“MOBO means music of black origin. Previously, reggae and dancehall categories were staples, but now are omitted or relegated to be part of a new Caribbean music category. Meanwhile, the genres it birthed, rap, grime and Afrobeat to name a few, are, as they should, accorded full prominence. Reggae and dancehall need their own spaces,” the artiste reasoned.
Last year, Dancehall artiste Skillibeng copped the award for Best Caribbean Music Act ahead of Koffee, Spice, Shenseea, and Sean Paul.
With past releases including Hello Poochiloo, which charted in the 90s in the UK, and Xtraordinary, which was released earlier this year and is also doing reasonably well on YouTube, Kwame Ultimate is optimistic about the success of his career.
“For me, the future’s looking bright – onwards and upwards. I’m already recording many more songs and a tour of Kenya and Ghana are in the pipeline. Also, I’m currently completing volume one of my book of poems, Blowing my Abeng,” he explained.
