He’s royal! Tarrus Riley to return for SummerSplash
One of the most popular voices in reggae music will be among the main attraction at this year’s Cup Match SummerSplash.
World renowned reggae singer Tarrus Riley, who is perhaps best known for his hit song ‘She’s Royal’, is returning to Bermuda’s shores to showcase his silky talents on the big stage.
“I am looking forward to delivering a solid performance at the Cup Match SummerSplash,” Mr Riley told The Royal Gazette. “I like the line-up as well.
“Tarrus Riley and Friends will give the reggae fans a night to remember. I cannot name my friends who will be joining me yet, but it will be great so stay tuned.”
Mr Riley was a big hit among local reggae followers when he performed at ‘Culture Shock’ at Somerset Cricket Club several years ago.
“I have only performed in Bermuda once before and I had a really good time on stage,” he said. “Never had a chance to stay very long in your country but I am hoping this trip will be different. Hopefully this visit will create some lasting memories.”
Mr Riley, who was born in New York and raised in Jamaica, is regarded as one of Jamaica’s precious gifts to music and known for making thought-provoking music with his trademark melodious ‘singy, singy’ style.
The crooner’s hit song ‘She’s Royal’ started a movement that made fans embrace the realisation of how great they are and the power of love.
Mr Riley, who was nominated for a Soul Train Music Award in 2009, is due to release his fifth full length album titled ‘Love Situation’, later this week.
The 17-track collection was produced by reggae legend and pioneer Dean Fraser, for Cannon, assisted by acts such as Shane C Brown of Juke Boxx Productions, Micthum ‘Khan’ Chin and Jordan McClure.
The album is a testament to the “resilience” and “timeless quality” of the reggae genre ‘Rock Steady’ or ‘Lover’s Rock’. ‘Dem a Watch’ is the lead single on the album.
“Each and every song is a favourite, depending on the mood I am in on a particular day,” Mr Riley said. “This album right now is my favourite album to date because I did some different things on this one. I encourage the public to listen to a few tracks and if they so choose they can pick it up and enjoy some of my best work to date.”
Asked whether he would be performing any of his latest songs during the upcoming Cup Match SummerSplash, the son of reggae singer Jimmy Riley replied: “Most definitely, great music. I am coming to deliver. I love performing and often have to be pulled off stage.”
Mr Riley and producer Mr Fraser are quite familiar with each other.
“This connection began from I was child,” Mr Riley said. “He has been a friend of my father for as long as I can remember.
“I grew up around him and other legends like Sly and Robbie, etc. We are all family.”
Further details on this year’s Cup Match SummerSplash, including venue and other performers, will be announced at a later date.