Over the past 15 years, Protoje has become a key player in modern reggae. The founder of the In.Digg.Nation Collective label is now taking its creative vision to the big screen. Yesterday, he released a teaser trailer for his upcoming film, The Jamaican Situation, which is set to hit theaters next summer. In anticipation of his co-directorial debut with SAMO, Protoje has dropped the official soundtrack, The Jamaican Situation (Side A), which is available today, October 18, via In.Digg.Nation Collective / Ineffable Records.

Protoje describes the film’s narrative: “The Jamaican Situation tells the story of a man returning home and grappling with his identity amidst the complexities of modern Jamaican life. My music intricately weaves into this narrative, enriching the dialogue and themes explored throughout the film.”

The Side A soundtrack is a blend of reggae and modern influences, infusing elements of hip-hop, soul, and jazz. Protoje has collaborated with several well-known Jamaican producers, such as Grammy-winner IzyBeats, Iotosh, Ziah.Push, and Zion I Kings. The EP includes standout tracks like the love song “Mariposa” (produced by Zion I Kings) and socially-conscious pieces such as “30 Million” (Iotosh) and “Where We Come From” featuring Jahshii (IzyBeats). The music video for “Where We Come From,” which highlights Protoje and Jahshii’s Jamaican roots, has already gathered over 1.3 million views on YouTube in just two months.

Other notable tracks on the EP include “80’s Wild,” produced by Will Tee and Protoje, which explores a politically turbulent era in Jamaica, and “Barrel Bun,” crafted by Ziah.Push, which calls for systemic change in the face of corruption and violence. The visualizer for “Barrel Bun,” directed by Samo, ties beautifully into the film’s trailer, offering an authentic glimpse of Jamaican life through a taxi cab confessional style.

Protoje emphasizes the powerful fusion of Jamaican culture, music, and film: “These elements together can elevate the image and reach of Jamaican culture internationally, showcasing its depth in a powerful way.” Fans can expect Side B of the soundtrack to be revealed closer to the film’s release in 2025.

Protoje continues to push the boundaries of reggae, expanding his influence beyond music to create a cinematic experience that captures the complexity and spirit of modern Jamaican life.