ARTIST BIOS
PROTOJE
Protoje is the name that reverberates at the core of Jamaica’s musical renaissance. A visionary and an architect of sound, Protoje has redefined what it means to be a modern artist, blending the rich heritage of reggae with the fresh influence of hip-hop, soul, and jazz. From his roots in Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica, Protoje’s journey is one marked by passion, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. In 2014, with his iconic track "Who Knows" ft. Chronixx, Protoje became a prominent figure of the "reggae revival" movement. But it didn’t stop there—his journey took him to uncharted territory, collaborating with global superstars like Jorja Smith, Alicia Keys, Pa Salieu, Wiz Khalifa and many more. His track “Switch It Up” ft. Koffee made its way into Barack Obama’s 2021 Summer Playlist, a testament to Protoje’s cross-generational appeal and cultural resonance.
But Protoje’s influence extends beyond just his music. He’s the founder of In.Digg.Nation Collective, a platform built to uplift the next wave of Jamaican talent, which nurtured artists like Sevana, Lila Iké, and Jaz Elise. His catalog of albums—each one a reflection of the time—shows his ability to evolve and push the boundaries of what reggae can be. In November 2023, he reimagined his 2020 album In Search of Lost Time with the audacious In Search of Zion, a deep dive into the experimental realms of dub, showcasing his fearless exploration of sound. With two Grammy nominations for Best Reggae Album, for A Matter of Time (2018) and Third Time’s The Charm (2022), Protoje’s name is etched alongside the greats. From Rolling Stone to Vogue, from The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert, Protoje’s reach is vast, transcending borders and genres, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage. His performances at Coachella, Glastonbury, and Lollapalooza have solidified him as one of the most dynamic forces in modern music. Protoje is more than an artist; he is a cultural catalyst who’s redefined what it means to be a Jamaican musician in the 21st century. Uncompromising, boundary-pushing, and constantly evolving—Protoje is not just part of the conversation; he is creating it. The Indiggnation serves as the driving creative and live force behind Protoje. The band’s tight, militant drum and bass and virtuosic guitar work provide the perfect canvas for Protoje’s socially conscious, storytelling lyrics.
Source: www.protoje.com
JESSE ROYAL
Jesse Royal is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and performer from Kingston, Jamaica, who's a central figure in the modern roots-reggae revival. His music blends 1970s roots reggae with a contemporary edge, and his lyrics convey messages of hope, strength, and consciousness. Royal's debut EP, This Is Jesse Royal, was released in 2014 and received positive reviews for its mix of traditional and modern sounds. Jesse was born April 29, 1989. He enjoyed his early years in the hills of Maroon Town and the District of Orange in St. James before moving in the late 90’s with his mother and brother to join his father in Kingston. As fate would have it, Royal developed a special relationship with Daniel ‘Bambaata’ Marley (son of Ziggy Marley) at school. His friendship with Daniel proved to be fuel to the fire as they shared a deep passion for music and football. With the help of longtime friend Curt ‘Qban’ White they began composing and creating their own music. And together they proceeded to fulfill what they knew was a predestined musical journey, designed to inspire, engage and unite people beyond all geographic borders.
After Jesse returned home from schooling abroad, he reestablished a relationship with high school friend and young producer Kareem ‘Remus’ Burrell (son of Philip ‘Fatis’ Burrell). They began creating and composing music together also, which developed into a Movement as they shared similar views on the social state of Jamaica. Blessed with a voice that captures the pain and hunger of a ‘downtrodden’ people; Royal’s militant character and profound lyricism caught the heart of heralded reggae producer, Philip ‘Fatis’ Burrell. Fatis Burrell, affectionately called ‘Father’ had a great and pure impact on the ‘old soul’ of Jesse; as he credits him as an invaluable inspiration and one of the most influential individuals that he has ever encountered.
Jesse has worked with musicians such as Sly Dunbar, Robbie Shakespeare, Donald Dennis, Earl ‘Chinna’ Smith and Monty Savory. Jesse released his debut mixtape dubbed Misheni in 2012, which means ‘The Mission’ in Swahili. He released the album, Lily of da Valley in 2017 and he received a Grammy nomination for the 2021 release Royal.
Source: www.reggaeville.com
TEEJAY
TeeJay is a Jamaican dancehall artist who mixes the tight lyrical cadence of trap with warm, melodic hooks. He rose in the late-2010s dancehall scene, singing on riddims and collaborating with acts like Vybez Kartel, Popcaan, and Jahmiel while notching hits of his own like "Uptop Boss." He remained a prolific singles artist into the next decade, gaining more widespread exposure with his 2023 Shaggy collaboration "Gyal Dem Time" and the breakout solo single "Drift." TeeJay started 2024 with the EP I Am Chippy.
Born Timoy Janeyo Jones on October 3, 1994, in Montego Bay, TeeJay is the youngest of four brothers, all of whom are musicians. He made his recording debut at age six and spent his youth performing at local parties and talent shows. After cycling through various musical styles and guises during his teenage years, he settled on a bright, melodic dancehall style in the mid-2010s and began billing himself as TeeJay. He appeared on a handful of riddims and gained wider exposure with 2018's "Braff," a collaboration with Ding Dong. "Uptop Boss," the title track of his 2019 album, became a hit and TeeJay entered the 2020s with increased momentum.
His output over the next few years was extremely prolific, consisting of solo tracks like "Make It Out" and "People," and numerous collaborations with artists including Jahyanai, Giggs, Chronic Law, and Rygin King. One of his most high-profile collaborations was 2023's "Gyal Dem Time" with dancehall icon Shaggy. That same year, TeeJay's track "Drift" became a significant hit and inspired remix versions featuring Davido and French Montana. "Bitcoin" with TroyBoss appeared at the beginning of 2024, followed by the EP project I Am Chippy.
Source: Timothy Monger
LIBIANCA
Cameroonian- American songstress Libianca started her 2023 with a bang releasing her breakout single ‘People’ and ended the year with a chart climbing musical masterpiece; her debut EP "Walk Away" in December of 2023. “WALK AWAY is the baggage that I’ve been carrying my whole life because of my fear of being perceived as weak or ‘bad’. A huge part of overcoming that fear was the process of creating this project. It’s my way of accepting me as I am, flaws and all, and reminding anyone willing to listen that they are human and imperfectly perfect and that’s perfectly fine.” Libianca states preceding the release. The soulful musician has touched on emotional subjects like depression, anxiety and fear of vulnerability all while showing her musical versatility; incorporating R&B, HipHop, Gospel, Afrobeats and Soul resulting in the unique fusions in her music. In a past year alone, the 24-year old has become the first chart topping Cameroonian artist with platinum in 9 countries including US, UK and Australia, 2X platinum in 3 countries and she’s only getting started.
Source: www.libianca.org
RIK JAM FEATURING DALWAYNE AND THE ISLAND FEDERATION
From the very start, Rik Jam (born as Ronaldo Ricketts) has been building something real with producer Philip McFarlane of Irie Yute Records and The Island Federation. Not just another artist-producer linkup, but a solid foundation that’s now ready to speak for itself with the release of Rik’s debut album, The Genesis in 2025. Written from real-life experiences and lessons learned along the way, The Genesis marks a new chapter, not just for Rik as an artist, but for roots reggae’s next wave. “This album represents every aspect of my life,” Rik shared with World A Reggae. “It’s been a rough journey to get where we need to be. But we’ve acknowledged how impactful music is, and I know reggae can help change the modern world, so the time is now.”
As for what keeps him grounded in a fast-changing industry? “The drive of both foundation and modern reggae artistes pushes me,” he says. “And I use my own life experiences to stay in the mindset I need, especially on the hard days.” The Genesis has received critical acclaim, while being represented on tours in both Europe and the US. Alongside his bredda Dalwayne, on the way, Rik has one piece of advice for the next generation coming up: “Stay consistent, stay humble, and be your authentic self. I know it’s hard in a world full of distractions, but without effort, there’s no progress, and no generational stability.” With a voice that some liken to Chronixx, Rik brings original roots vibes in a more contemporary way.
Source: Danny Creatah
Dalwayne is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall artist known for his music and performances, with a career built around the vibrant sounds of Jamaican sound systems. He was born and raised in the hills of George Town, Western St. Mary, Jamaica, where he grew up surrounded by the community’s sound systems. From an early age, Dalwayne developed a passion for writing and performing, which led him to pursue a career in music.
His early exposure to Jamaican reggae and dancehall culture shaped his style, and he has since become recognized for tracks like Deal Wid It and Watch Your Friends, which have gained a following in the U.S. and other markets. Dalwayne’s music often reflects the energy and rhythm of Jamaican roots reggae, and he has been active in the reggae scene through performances and collaborations.
Source: https://app.chartmetric.com
INTERNATIONAL REGGAE ALL STARS
The International Reggae All Stars (IRAS) are a globally recognized reggae and dancehall ensemble known for bringing together musicians from diverse Caribbean and international backgrounds to perform the genre’s most iconic songs. The band’s lineup features artists hailing from Venezuela, Trinidad, Ghana, and Kingston, Jamaica, reflecting its multicultural roots. IRAS blends reggae, dancehall, and classic Bob Marley anthems, delivering high-energy performances that emphasize the genre’s messages of peace, love, and positive vibrations. Their setlists often include timeless tracks from Marley and other reggae legends, making them a favorite for both seasoned fans and newcomers.
Source: www.twincitiesreggae.com
SOUND OF FUJUN
Sound of Fujun has been bringing the hottest music to the Twin Cities since 2003. The first Caribbean DJ from Minnesota to go global, he broadcasts to avid fans via soundoffujun.podomatic.com. "Fujun" comes from his Trinidadian roots, spelled as it is pronounced back home. His ability to fuse music- dancehall, hip hop, reggae, soca, afrobeats - keeps the vibe fresh and fans wanting more. He performs regularly at Jamaica Pimento Kitchen Rum Bar and will be performing at the official Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival after party held at Spurs on First and Aces. Check out this year's Bayfront Reggae & World Music podcast.