For reggae fans around the world, Mykal Rose is the personification of Rasta and reggae. Appropriate then, that his latest number one song salutes the Creator.
Produced by Josh Harris for Big Feet Records, "Glory to Jah" is number one on the New York Foundation Network top 30 Music Chart.
Rose, best known for his years with Black Uhuru, says being number one in any reggae market is a big deal.
"It tells that Mykal Rose is still current, still into today's generation and can still compete with these young youths," he stated.
With Covid-19 causing the cancellation of reggae festivals, particularly Europe, the 65 year-old singer maintains a busy recording schedule. Big Feet Records, based in Northern California, is one of the labels he has done songs for recently.
"Glory to Jah" going number one was bitter-sweet for Rose who found international fame during the 1980s with Black Uhuru which won the inaugural Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album for "Anthem" in 1985.
Bassist Robbie Shakespeare, who co-produced that album with drummer Sly Dunbar, died in December at age 68. He was buried in Jamaica as "Glory to Jah" approached pole position.
"Robbie was a very mysterious person...at times he was funny an' give jokes. Another time, he's serious," Rose recalled. "One of the greatest musicians ever to play a bass."
Written By Howard Campbell