5 Questions With Samory I

Like many reggae and dancehall artistes, Samory-Tour Frazer’s musical journey had its genesis in the Christian church. Having later embraced Rastafari and subsequently adding that significant ‘I’ to his name, the young roots reggae artiste took to the stage as a member of the group JDT. A decade ago, fate played a huge role in bringing him to the eyes and ears of First Born Management’s Bridgett Anderson who has been responsible for the careers of artistes such as Garnet Silk and Jahmali. It was at the time when Samory I had made a decision to take his career seriously by doing some recordings. With Anderson at the helm, Samory I performed for the first time at the Digicel-sponsored Bob Marley Tribute at Emancipation Park and the Dennis Brown tribute on the Waterfront. His career has taken off by leaps and bounds since then.

In 2017, he released the critically acclaimed début album, Black Gold, with producer Rory ‘Stonelove’ Gilligan, which featured hard-hitting tracks such as Rasta Nuh Gangsta, Black Gold, and Son of David. Many singles followed, which not only kept him current, but also secured Samory I a place on the long-running reggae festival across Europe. Last year, he made a resounding impact with the Winta James-produced Strength, an 11-track offering with guest appearances from Lila Iké, Jesse Royal, Capleton, Kabaka Pyramid and Mortimer. The album cover shows Samory I with his son, Jahseh, who he affectionately calls ‘Strength’.

Of the project, Samory is quoted as saying, “The album is called Strength. It represents the struggles I’ve overcome, both mentally and physically, and is also a representation of my son, who is my driving force behind this album.”

This week, 5 Questions With ... had a chat with Samory I, who will be making a cameo at Reggae Sumfest this weekend.

Share with us some of your career highs for 2024 and some of your goals going forward.

Career highs of 2024? I’d have to say my experience in Africa back in April. It was life-changing for me. I had an amazing opportunity to perform in the Motherland surrounded with and met by so much love from the people. It was surreal. The main goal is to continue to spread the word of Jah through my music. Otherwise, I accept the blessings with music as they come. Life is amazing.

You released the album, ‘Strength’, last November. Rolling Stone magazine described it as “deeply spiritual”. Do you agree and how is the album doing?

The album is doing great, and it continues to create new [and] exciting opportunities. We are working on a deluxe version of Strength to be released later this year. More details will be announced soon.

You have roots in the Seventh-day Adventist church and it is reported that your singing there brought many to tears. What is your relationship like with the church and is a gospel album something you would consider doing?

I have a close and personal relationship with the Most High and I allow him to consistently guide me towards the best version of myself.

You are often seen at events with your young son. Would you be happy if he follows in your musical footsteps?

My son has a beautiful voice, but I want him to follow his heart and do whatever makes him happy.

(a) Who have been your musical influences and which artistes would you like to collaborate with? (b) What do you have planned for your Reggae Sumfest cameo?

Of course, Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Peter Tosh, to name a few of the greats. I am always open to collaborating with other artistes. There are so many talented people I can’t even tell you. [The Sumfest cameo] is just another day pon the ball field really ... witnessing to the people about the Most High. That is essentially what I am here to do.

BRAWTA:

What would people be surprised to know about Samory I?

I am a total homebody. When I’m not on di road, I’m most likely at home with my family. I really value that time the most.

yasmine.peru@gleanerjm.com