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October 22, 2007
Papa San Getting Ready for Higher Heights
By: Olimatta Taal
In a time where the message in music is sometimes overshadowed by sex, violence, and money, there remain a number of artists whose main mission is to "edutain" and motivate through song like Jamaica's beloved Papa San. Riding on the success of over 30 number one singles and over 15 albums, one would wonder why the transition from secular reggae music to gospel reggae?
"I was depressed, frustrated, and confused. After the Benz, the house, the money, and the fame, I still had no peace. That's why we find artist going into drugs because they are trying to fill a void," expresses Papa San as he passionately recounts his life's transition. He continues to talk about the pain he experienced from watching 40 friends and two brothers die from gun violence.
Discussing turbulent times in his life he explains, "I was almost killed and imprisoned. I looked for protection in the gun but there was no protection. Looked for comfort in fame but I still didn't find it. I had to start over and search and then the Lord began to reach out to my heart".
"The Lord revealed that it's not about me but it's about him and what he wants. I had the desire to go to church and talk to this pastor. I was saying to myself that God would never forgive a man like me because I sinned against God so greatly, but I never knew the love of God. As the pastor ministered to me, the truth revealed to me and I opened up to the truth of Christ," beams Papa San.
Now the world is counting down time until the release of his newest album, "Higher Heights," which will come out in March 2008 on Samba and Beloved Records. It consists of a combination of reggae, dancehall, and lovers rock flowered in messages of inspiration and motivation. Recorded with absolute love, diligence, and discipline it will take you to Higher Heights.