Shinehead marks 30th anniversary of hit ‘Jamaican in New York’

As he prepares to hit the stage in December with a live band on Damian Marley’s Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise, Shinehead is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Jamaican in New York. Much to his credit, the artiste of Jamaican descent impacted audiences around the world with this iconic song.

A vibrant response to Sting’s Englishman in New York, Shinehead’s Jamaican in New York first appeared on the famed Sidewalk University album in 1992, but was formally released as a single in 1993.

Shinehead ushered in a soulful take on the Sting classic, celebrating the combination of Jamaican and New York cultures. Yet, upon release, it became clear that the catchy song would span beyond New York’s borders, resonating with worldwide audiences.

The song connected with Jamaican and other Caribbean immigrants in New York and throughout the diaspora. Jamaican in New York went on to do well in numerous countries. It charted in the United Kingdom (UK) for five weeks, peaking at No. 30 on the singles chart.

Shinehead, a consummate entertainer, seamlessly incorporated his reggae fusion style on Jamaican in New York, giving it a cool, Caribbean flair. The memorable music video, which features Caribbean epicentre Brooklyn as its backdrop, has amassed millions of views on YouTube. The hit song also spawned numerous covers.

Shinehead’s music catalogue includes songs such as Strive, Golden Touch, Chain Gang, Olivia Know How Fe Chat and Try My Love. He won over the ears and hearts with lover’s rock gems released during the pandemic, including Never Had a Dream Come True and The Makings of You.

Shinehead was honoured by the Los Angeles Reggae Community this summer ahead of jet-setting to Canada and England to perform. The famed act is also celebrating hip hop’s 50th, in tandem with the 35th anniversary of his début album Unity.