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March 31, 2008
Ras Emanuel emancipating minds with his reggae vibe
By: Joseph Cunningham
Reggae music is not just about a feel-good vibe, it is a genre of music, which is accompanied by deep spirituality that emancipates the mind.
Young reggae musicians, most often are those who have been exposed to the negative challenges life presents.
Ras Emanuel was born in Kingston, Jamaica, relatively close to gangs, political struggle, armed police and poverty.
He earned money by working as a construction labourer and as a fisherman. He also made money by digging and pushing through garbage dumps to find salvaged metal and plastics.
As a way of escape, he kept music in his soul, performing and making radio dubs for local disc jockeys and local radio stations. He described himself as a very diligent youngster who was serious about his career, spending countless nights in the studio and performing on subway platforms, clubs, and in parks.
As a young teen he was selected to compete at a talent contest in Jamaica. During the contest he was discovered by legendary Jamaican veteran deejay, U Roy.
Today, he resides mainly in the United States, where he has developed a sound that ranges from roots, dancehall, hip hop and R&B. He has been privileged to share stages with the likes of Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Elephant Man and Johnny Osbourne.
Hailed as a true storyteller through his music, Ras Emanuel speaks strongly against violence, family separation, and advocates just as strongly for love as well as national and international unity.
His upcoming album is called, "Loving Enemies." a title which symbolizes his life long message.