Reggae artist Ras-I is encouraging aspiring musicians to invest in themselves as he continues building a successful career through independent music production and live performances.
Ras-I’s musical journey began in his youth as he frequented his mother’s workplace, the Tuff Gong record label in Kingston, Jamaica. While there, he witnessed the creation of the Chant Down Babylon album and met several artists, including Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill. Unaware of their global influence at the time, he says his perspective shifted after seeing them perform at a concert in St. Ann Parish. The audience’s reaction ignited his aspiration to perform on stage, a desire he shared with his mother.
Ras-I – Recording Artist: “I want people to remember that the best experience for you with reggae music will always be live. Live drum, live bass, the live feeling, the live band effect. The horns played how the music should be played in fullness.” Furthermore, having a band is not the sole factor that has amplified his career. Ras-I has assembled a team that includes a publicist, with all expenses being covered by him.
Ras-I – Recording Artist: “Are you backed by any major record label? I have a distribution deal, so that’s it. Everything else is in-house, independently.” He says the independent route is a road less travelled, but for those who decide to take it, he offers this advice. Ras-I – Recording Artist “Who better to invest in you than yourself? Who better to trust in your product than yourself? Who better to speak highly of your product than yourself? I will always bet on me.”
