Samory I promises ‘the best of I’ for Rebel Salute

For many, Rebel Salute represents the pinnacle of the roots and reggae experience, but for Samory I, it’s more than that – it’s also another opportunity to deliver the best of himself to his growing fan base.

In a conversation with The Gleaner, the Rasta Nuh Gangsta singer bellowed songs of humility when considering the annual show.

“It is always an amazing thing to be on any platform where Rastas can go on and spread positivity, but it’s just another night in the office. Is just for me to go out and give the people the message,” he said.

When asked what fans can expect from his performance come February 19, Samory simply said “the best of I”.

FRUITS OF THE JOURNEY

Since 2016, Samory I has been on a fast track to the top, sharing his love for roots reggae music along the way. It’s been humbling, he says.

“For me to see the reward for the work over years has been simply amazing. The reception for even something like the Strength album has been life-changing, and I[am] just humbled,” Samory shared.

Since his entrance on to the local scene, he has worked with big names such Capleton, recent Grammy winner Kabaka Pyramid, and Lila Iké.

Samory says he looks forward to working with any artiste in the future, as long as they approach [the task] with positivity.

30 YEARS OF REBEL

In two weeks, Rebel Salute, which started in the late ‘90s, celebrates 30 years.

Since its inception, the roots show has featured a mix of vegetarian cuisine, herbal offerings and an onslaught of top-tier musical performances.

The latter of the three creating complaints of too many performers in previous years.

To remedy the situation, the event’s founder and namesake, Tony Rebel, promised that this year’s show will only feature 15 acts each night.

“Because it’s our 30th anniversary, I want to go with 30 artistes. So we call it 30 for 30… So we doing 15 artistes on Friday and 15 on Saturday,” he explained.

This year’s line-up includes Third World, Anthony B, Marcia Griffiths, Sanchez, Sean Paul, Leroy Gibbons, Lone Ranger, CC Foster, Tapazuki and Benjy Myaz.

For Samory, while the show is stacked with big names, he still feels he has something “special” to offer the audience.

kenrick.morgan@gleanerjm.com