Samory I, born Samory-Tour Frazer, is a roots reggae singer from Kingston, Jamaica, recognized for his unique, emotive vocals. Growing up in the tough neighborhood of Kencot, Kingston, Samory I carries a name inspired by the African ruler Samory Touré, reflecting his role as a voice for the voiceless.
From his 2017 debut album, "Black Gold," produced by Rory "Stonelove" Gilligan, to recent singles like "Love and Mercy" on Winta James' Gratitude Riddim, Samory I's music resonates with messages of hope, pain, resilience, and love.
Samory I's journey into music started early, singing daily as a child and enchanting audiences at church events. His breakout single, "Rasta Nuh Gangsta," from the album "Black Gold," garnered over 10 million views on YouTube.
Currently working with Grammy-nominated producer Winta James on his upcoming album slated for 2023, Samory I continues to make waves in the reggae scene. His recent track, "Life Is Amazing," featuring Chi Ching Ching, and collaborations on Protoje's album showcase his versatility.
A consistent presance on major European festivals and in clubs, Samory I's prime mission is to be a voice of Jah, spreading conscious reggae music globally. His solo debut album, "Strength," was released on November 17, 2023, featuring collaborations with Kabaka Pyramid, Capleton, Lila Iké, Jesse Royal, and Mortimer. Additionally, the album garnered favorable reviews in Rolling Stone and secured the 42nd spot on the magazine's list of the 100 best albums of 2023.
With distinctive vocals and lyrical consciousness, Samory I is gaining global recognition. Featured on the covers of European magazines like Echoes, RIDDIM, and Reggae Vibes, he is hailed as one of the most important artists of this era.
Samory I will embark on a European tour in March 2024, joined by fellow artist Mortimer and St. Croix's Tippy I Grade Dub. This synergy promises a unique celebration of roots reggae and soundsystem culture, creating an unforgettable experience for audiences worldwide.
TIPPY I GRADE [Live Dub] is a live dub mixing engineer and producer from St. Croix, VI who is best known for his extensive works with Vaughn Benjamin of Midnite/Akae Beka. By bringing studio elements to the stage, he performs improvised live dub mixing of songs from his and his Zion I Kings' production team's vast catalog of original works. By fusing the classic Jamaican tradition of dub mixing with modern technology and techniques developed at his "Dub in the Rainforest" events, Tippy I Grade brings an immersive experience of heavyweight dub and transcendent lyrical power.
What is live dub? More dynamic than a sound system session, more immersive than a stage show - live dub mixing is a unique art form that allows the mixing engineer to craft extemporaneous soundscapes with multi-tracked music arrangements, using echoes, reverbs and other effects as brushes on the musical canvas. Paired with skilled vocalists, live dub becomes an unforgettable musical experience.
