ALBUM DESCRIPTION
With a plaintiff cry and a "firehouse" style similar to secular crooners Michael Rose, Yamy Bolo and Junior Reid comes the Bahamian sensation Singaton. You first heard this gospel reggae crooner on Mr. Lynx's "Zion I Records Sampler." Now with his full-length debut he is finally ready to branch out on his own. With a jaw dropping testimony and a genuine spirit, Singaton is the real deal. And with this artist, the album title rings true--for his life truly was a "Rocky Road."
"My life was a rocky road but the Spirit of God has delivered me from many things," says Singaton, "At the age of sixteen I went to jail for murder and I was in a gang for seven years." But that was the old Singaton. Now instead of killing he is bringing life to thousands of gang members through the gospel of Jesus Christ and the sweet sounds of gospel reggae.
From the jailhouse to the Lord's house, this vibrant, resilient warrior for Christ emerges on the gospel scene with an unquenchable fire! His lyrics hit the heart, vibin' on everyday issues that affect the common man'. Always the encourager, Sington reaches out to the nation's youth through school appearances, youth conferences and concerts, sharing his story of a life riddled with drug dealing, gang violence and finally jail time: a path he relentlessly discourages others from following. A former member of the Zion I Records family, Singaton continues to strive to make his mark on the world music stage with lyrics and melodies that provoke us all to "live the life you love" while never forgetting the source of life: Jesus The Christ!
Representing the best in roots, dancehall and culture, this album contains both original and familiar riddims by producers such as Kelda "Timeless" Sweeting and DJ Frost. Using familiar melodies on songs like "Temptation," "Who's In Control" and "Give it to Christ" Singaton sings of his devoted reliance on Christ. With burning up songs like the infectious "Temperature" and the mind-blowing "Not Rastafari," it is apparent that the very tall Singaton is both literally and figuratively head and shoulders above the rest.
Whether he is singing about social issues like on the steppers "Rocky Road" feat background vocals by Mr. Lynx or his mother on "Mama," Singaton pours his heart out through the speakers. If you are a fan of Black Uhuru, Yami Bolo, modern roots or early dancehall, then Singaton is the perfect gospel reggae artist for you. After just one listen, his message continued to minister to my spirit and resonate in my soul. And the more I listen, the more I love "Rocky Road". So order your copy today!
Reviewed by Mark Mohr for GospelReggae.com