Protoje for New York Times
Words ✍️ Pat Meschino
“Since emerging as a pre-eminent figure within Jamaica’s Reggae Revival movement of the previous decade, Protoje has grown into one of the most powerful global ambassadors of the island’s signature beat.”
The album tackles societal critiques, Rastafarian philosophy, personal reflections and romantic longings. “The Locusts,” with an evocative sung-spoken history lesson delivered by Pressure Busspipe, is reminiscent of a trap palette overlaid with crunchy guitars and shimmering keys; the bittersweet recollections shared on “Something I Said,” featuring a soulful refrain by Jesse Royal, are undergirded by a velvety ’70s-styled R&B groove. Yet “The Art of Acceptance” remains strongly tethered to Jamaica’s musical foundation: exquisitely crafted one-drop rhythms, throbbing bass lines and dub reverbs that aren’t diluted for a globalized market.
Reggae’s sound has always been positive and palatable, Bob Marley’s music was palatable, but my music sounds like me because of my influences and the producer’s influences,” Protoje said. “I am making authentic reggae, elevating my music to global production standards so that someone who may not be a reggae fan would hear it and say, ‘this sounds good.’”
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Protoje’s new album The Art Of Acceptance is available next F. April 17
ICYMI: Lila Iké and host Alissa Chang of @NPR All Things Considered took a stroll in December at Kenneth State Hahn Park to discuss her first time Grammy nomination.
Link 🔗 in bio.
Lila Iké Road To Grammys Recap
“Born a child of the sun, saw my work had just begun, found I had to stand alone. Bless it now, I’ve got my own.”
These lyrics, sung by Lila Iké from Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Shining Star,”opened the 68th Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony.
And they couldn’t resonate more with her journey and mission — every step guided by purpose, resilience, and unmatched grace.
As The only woman nominated for Best Reggae Album this year, Lila didn’t just show up… she showed OUT. Watching her in these moments throughout the Grammy week was powerful, earned, and long overdue. Over the years, I’ve seen her grow into a fearless, eloquent force — confident in her light and unapologetic in her shine.
Big up the whole team @lilaike@protoje@clairesk1es@lornavbennett@indiggcollective@ineffablerecords@diegointhemusic@adam.g.r.o.s.s
Billboard’s exclusive announces Protoje’s forthcoming album The Art of Acceptance and tour this Spring w new song ft Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley
✍️ @iamkyledenis
“‘At We Feet’ is about faith, surrender, and trust, knowing that when you move with love and positivity, provision comes, even in hard times,” the St. Elizabeth native explained. “It’s a reminder that beyond our plans, there’s a greater design unfolding.”
@LilaIk é performs and shares her musical gems 💎 @applemusic 1's #TheEbroShow! Tune in for a real conversation about life, holidays, and her GRAMMY-nominated album Treasure Self Love. 🔗 in bio!
Lila Iké sat down with Juju Chang for ABC News Live to discuss her debut album #TreasureSelfLove fresh from her 3rd win for Best Female Reggae Artist at the Caribbean Music Awards.
Lila Iké will drop her long-awaited debut album, Treasure Self Love, on August 22.
Critics rave with early acclaim.
This deeply personal project includes collaborations with H.E.R., Joey Bada$$, Masicka, Protoje, Maverick Sabre, and more.
