Laying down the law
IT has been four years since Lawgiver The Kingson performed in Jamaica. He is scheduled to make a comeback at Reggae Sumfest on July 23, which just happens to be his birthday.
The California-based singer will perform on Main Festival Night 2 at Catherine Hall in Montego Bay. A number of top acts including Tarrus Riley, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, and Cham are also billed.
“Performing on Reggae Sumfest means a whole lot to me in so many ways. First as a Jamaican, it is an honour to perform in my homeland, it also gives me a sense of satisfaction to know that my works will be highlighted, and I have a feeling of elation knowing that I will be performing on the one of the biggest reggae festivals in Jamaica on July 23, which is my birthday as well,” said Lawgiver The Kingson.
Last year, he released his debut EP, LawGiver The Kingson From Kingston, and is currently working on a follow-up which is expected to be out this summer. On it, he works with drummer/producer Cleveland “Clevie” Browne, and collaborates with artistes such as singer Samory I.
Lawgiver The Kingson (real name Oneil Phoenix) was born in Kingston but raised in St Mary where he got exposed to dancehall music through Tidal Wave, his uncle’s sound system.
After doing on the rounds on the United States West Coast, he is looking forward to his date on Sumfest.
“Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae. When you are visible in Jamaica the world will see, as they watch and emulate all that is Jamaican,” said Lawgiver The Kingson.