Reggae music has been intimately tied to “royalty” since it’s very inception. Often referred to as “the Kings music”, there has been a consistent presence of regal African imagery in Reggae culture. With Rastafari as a major part of the music’s origins, these concepts have remained prominent even as their presence have fluctuated in other genres of music. Grammy-winning songwriter King MAS, with the release of his third studio album “Crown”, draws inspiration from the ancient tradition of African royalty and creates a musical universe that is sure to enchant, educate, and uplift Reggae lovers across the globe. On the heels of the massive collaborative single “Definition of a King”, King MAS has concocted another potion of powerful musical medicine that is as potent an offering as we have seen thus far.
The “Crown” album explores the theme of right relationship and reminds each listener of the ancient principles that keep relationships, families, and kingdoms together. In the title song (Crown), King MAS expresses his desire to heal the scars of a broken heart as he proclaims his belief that beyond a shadow of a doubt “every Queen deserves a crown”. With 17 original songs, including 12 previously unreleased cuts from his ever expanding catalog, “Crown” is a musical journey through the mind of a modern day king. With a host of features including Zosia McGregor, Randy Valentine, Kabaka Pyramid, & Jahdan Blakkamoor, the global Reggae community is well represented.
From the opening invocation by Senegalese kora (traditional harp) player and storyteller Jali fily Cissokho to the upbeat dancehall vibes of “No Lie” alongside K’reema, daughter of the original dancehall king Yellowman, the very best of modern Reggae fusion is interwoven into a gripping musical narrative. Grammy-winning musicians Llamar “Riff Raff” Brown, Dernst “D’mile” Emile II, & Dahryl “DJ” Camper contribute a high level of production value from various styles throughout the tracklist. The album is executive produced by King MAS himself alongside his Grammy-nominated brother Mitymaose (who also delivers an impressive vocal performance on the King MAS produced reggae remix to his single “Pretty Eyes”). The Crown album is the first full-length release from the Bantu Nation Movement music label. If this project is any indication, the kingdom of Reggae is ever expanding and shall continue in its royal procession for years to come.
Release Date – Thursday, February 14th
