Bob Marley & The Wailers Announce Posthumous Album 'Africa Unite'

By: Adonis Armstrong

Scheduled for release on August 4, 2023, Africa Unite should be a amazing posthumous album that beautifully fuses Reggae and Afrobeats, honoring Bob Marley's legendary legacy by reimagining his greatest hits with infectious rhythms.

Presenting a masterful fusion of Bob Marley's timeless classics and the exceptional talents of contemporary African musicians, Africa Unite will showcase a collection of ten tracks that embody true musical brilliance. With great collaborations featuring Sarkodie, Tiwa Savage, Teni, and Oxlade, the album will breathe new life into Bob Marley's iconic compositions, infusing them with each artist's distinct style and artistry.

The impact of Bob Marley on the music cultures of Reggae and Afrobeats knows no bounds. In the album Africa Unite, his timeless music transcends generations and borders, offering a captivating musical voyage for listeners. From soul-stirring interpretations of "Waiting In Vain" to the invigorating vibes of "Stir It Up," the album effortlessly merges two extraordinary musical realms into a harmonious masterpiece.

Along with the album reveal, the debut single, a fresh rendition of Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds" by the emerging talents Teni and Oxlade from Nigeria, has been unleashed. This track flawlessly preserves the essence of the original while infusing it with a captivating afro-fusion twist.

Bob Marley & The Wailers - Three Little Birds (Oxlade Visualiser) ft. Teni, Oxlade

In a testament to the worldwide impact of Bob Marley's music and a celebration of the vibrant tapestry of African rhythms and melodies, Africa Unite will serve as a captivating showcase. Seamlessly blending the soulful vibrations of reggae with the invigorating energy of Afrobeats, the should album embody the spirit of unity and collaboration, echoing the late artist's vision of a harmonious world.

Anticipated to mesmerize both dedicated followers of Bob Marley and newcomers eager to immerse themselves in the enchantment of his music, the arrival of Africa Unite promises a vibrant and revitalized experience. Serving as a testament to Bob Marley's lasting influence, the album effortlessly bridges the gap between the past and present, showcasing his timeless artistry in a contemporary light.

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Bob Marley's Life and Legacy Shown in "Bob Marley: One Love" Teaser Trailer

By: Omar Cook

On Thursday, July 6, Paramount released the highly anticipated teaser trailer for Bob Marley: One Love generating excitement among fans eager to experience the film's powerful storytelling on the big screen. The visually captivating trailer offers a glimpse into the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of the legendary reggae icon, Bob Marley Fans are eagerly awaiting the film's theatrical release, set to take place next year.

Within the film, the role of Bob Marley is portrayed by acclaimed British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir, capturing the essence and spirit of the iconic musician. Joining him is the talented Lashana Lynch, who portrays Bob's wife, Rita Marley, adding depth and authenticity to their on-screen dynamic. Bob Marley, often referred to as the global face of reggae music, left an indelible mark on the world with his timeless hits like "Turn Your Lights Down Low." Audiences can expect a captivating portrayal of his extraordinary life and the profound impact he had on music and culture.

One man. One message. One revolution. One legend. Watch the Bob Marley: One Love teaser trailer now - Coming to theatres 2024. #BobMarleyMovie #OneLoveMovie @OneLoveMovie pic.twitter.com/bojXtQRIoU

— Bob Marley (@bobmarley) July 6, 2023

As reported by Variety, the highly anticipated biopic was skillfully directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, with a screenplay crafted by the talented team of Zach Baylin, Frank E. Flowers, and Terence Winter. It's an exciting collaboration that brings together the creative vision and storytelling expertise of these accomplished individuals. Adding to the significance of the film, David "Ziggy" Marley, the son of Bob and Rita Marley, shared on Twitter that his family, in partnership with Paramount, took part in producing the movie. Filming took place in Jamaica and England, immersing the production in the very locations that shaped Bob Marley's remarkable journey.

“Authenticity fills the screen with numerous Jamaican actors doing us proud in representing the culture,” said Ziggy. “Filmed at the actual places where Bob walked, played football, and sang, like Trench Town and Bull Bay in Kingston, it is an artistic creation that we are proud of and want you to enjoy to be entertained but also to be inspired. The family produced it with Paramount studio, and for us, it represents the continuation of Bob’s message and growth.”

Stay tuned for more updates on the release of this highly anticipated biopic!

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Reggae Sensation Etana Talks Grammy Nomination And Breaking Barriers For Women In Reggae

By: Omar Cook

Female reggae sensation, Etana, was the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category. The last time a female artist was nominated in the category was in 1997 when Sister Carol received a nomination. Etana’s Reggae Forever album was nominated alongside Black Uhuru for As the World Turns, Ziggy Marley for Rebellion Rises, Protoje for A Matter of Time and Grammy Award winners for Best Reggae Album, Sting & Shaggy for 44/876.

Etana, whose real name is Shauna McKenzie, is a soulful singer and songwriter. She made international waves with her fifth album Reggae Forever  which debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number one. Her fourth album I Rise also debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number one and her album Better Tomorrow debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number seven. Etana made history as the first female with back-to-back top albums on the Billboard Reggae Chart. Her unique sound blends Roots Reggae with flavors of Folk, Soul, and Jazz.

Etana is an artist that is breaking barriers for women in Reggae and her success is giving other women pursuing a music career inspiration to keep pushing. Etana speaks about her 2019 Grammy Awards experience and hitting the red carpet at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA!

Etana - Free Part 2

We talked with Etana in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

QUESTION: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING MUSIC AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?

Etana: I've been singing since I was eight years old. I wanted to be a nurse or a doctor but music called me in and I knew music was it for me. I started professionally in music in 2000.

QUESTION: MUSICALLY, WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE IN HELPING YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY AND WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE MUSICIANS?

Etana: Bob Marley, Jay-Z, Bruno Mars, Beyonce to Dolly Parton. They sing about their own life experiences. That speaks to me. When you listen to songs that explores life experiences especially to things that we can all relate to, you're sure to love it. I feel my music connects with people as they can relate to my songs either they have those same experiences or may be experiencing it right now. 

Etana on the Red Carpet at the Grammy Awards 2019

QUESTION: YOUR ALBUM REGGAE FOREVER WAS NOMINATED FOR BEST REGGAE ALBUM THIS YEAR AT THE GRAMMYS! WHAT WAS YOUR INITIAL FEELING WHEN YOU FOUND OUT YOU WERE NOMINATED AND WHAT WAS THE GRAMMY EXPERIENCE LIKE SHARING THE NOMINATION WITH OTHER GREAT REGGAE ARTISTS SUCH AS STING, SHAGGY, BLACK UHURU, AND ZIGGY MARLEY?

Etana: So excited! It's an honor that Reggae Forever has been recognized by the Recording Academy with a Best Reggae Album nomination and to be amongst these talented nominated artists and award-winning artists. I'm truly delighted to have made an album independently that was well received by so many people around the world. 

QUESTION: YOU WERE THE FIRST FEMALE IN 21 YEARS TO BE NOMINATED FOR A GRAMMY AWARD IN THE BEST REGGAE ALBUM CATEGORY. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON REPRESENTING WOMEN IN REGGAE AND WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED TO BREAK BARRIERS?

Etana: Having five albums that have all rocketed to the Billboard Reggae Chart is impressive. Being the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category is monumental. The last time that a female was nominated in the category was in 1997 when Sister Carol received a nomination. I'm a reggae artist who wants to preserve and grow our music and to promote love and inspire, so that it makes way for endless opportunities for reggae artists to have. Women in reggae have come a long way but we still have a long way to go and I intend on breaking as many closed doors and barriers as much as possible. 

Etana - I Rise | Official Music Video

QUESTION: WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS YOUR BEST SONG/PROJECT EVER RELEASED AND WHY?

Etana: All of them! I'm proud of all of them! My album Reggae Forever. I was extremely happy when I learned that my first independent project made it to number one and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Reggae album. The album is distributed by Tad's Records. I think audiences appreciate that Reggae Forever was independently produced, it's eclectic and the main message is love as well as it tells many stories and keeps the listener engaged. 

QUESTION: WHAT PROJECTS CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE NEAR FUTURE?

Etana: I'm in the process with my sixth studio album and I’m looking forward to releasing a single from that album soon. I will be going on tour in the U.S. this year and will be touring the U.K and other countries. 

For up-to-the-minute news and information on my music and shows, visit www.etantathestrongone.com and follow at Facebook @OneEtana and Instagram @EtanaStrongOne and Twitter @EtanaStrongOne.

QUESTION: HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC TO PEOPLE AND WHAT SEPARATES YOU FROM OTHER ARTISTS IN YOUR GENRE?

Etana: My sound blends Roots Reggae with flavors of Folk, Soul, and Jazz. My music has a bit of everything for everyone. It is wonderful to see many audiences deeply connected to my music.

QUESTION: WHAT SACRIFICES HAVE YOU HAD TO MAKE TO SEE YOUR DREAM BECOME A REALITY AND WHAT ARE SOME OBSTACLES THAT YOU HAVE OVERCOME?

Etana: We all go through hardships and sacrifices especially experiences throughout our life that shape us. Everything that I have experienced up to now has shaped me into the person I am today. I'm still learning and growing and feel that through hard work, perseverance, determination, knowledge, and self love is important to have and to continue it through life. 

QUESTION: WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR MUSIC IN 5 YEARS?

Etana: I want to continue to make hits and to continue to make great music that people want to listen to. Two levels up at a time or more.

Etana - Spread Love (Official Music Video)

QUESTION: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER UP AND COMING ARTISTS OR PEOPLE LOOKING TO BREAK INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY?

Etana: Always work hard, keep improving your music and sound and believe in yourself. 

QUESTION: IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE SOME KEYS TO BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL MUSIC ARTIST?

Etana: Keep learning and growing. Continue to make great music and for longevity. Knowing as much about the business of music is important as well. 

QUESTION: WITH IT BEING BLACK HISTORY MONTH, MUSIC HAS PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE HISTORY OF AFRICAN AMERICANS! WHAT LEGACY ARE YOU LOOKING TO LEAVE BEHIND WITH YOUR MUSIC?

Etana: African American musicians and producers have made huge contributions to the history of music. As an African American female it is important to continue to enrich the culture of music. I want to make a lasting impression in the minds and hearts of little girls and boys of all races, religion, and lifestyles, all across the world.

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