“I was born into music” esteems Ras Iba, a conscious roots reggae artist on Mt Nebo Records and a native of
St. Croix
. “I knew from a very young age that music was going to be a big part of my life since my father was a musician.”
Iba began his professional music career as a lead singe for reggae bands like Frontline and The Survivors. However, it wasn’t until after his contribution to the 2001 Talking Roots collaboration CD that this powerful artist decided to record his first solo album, “Jah Lion”, which released in 2003. Now back from touring and promoting his first album, Iba reflects on his second album “Many Lives”.
Explain some of the challenges you experienced while recording “Many Lives”.
“Completing my second was challenging because of the long distance I had to travel between my home in
Connecticut
and the label in
Maryland
. Apart from the distance, time was also a factor since I was still touring at the time. But I was determined to finish the album so I remained focus and overcame the compromising circumstances. I found comfort in knowing that nothing happens before its time.”
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Did you apply any lessons learned from your first album to this one?
The two lessons I learned since my solo album were: First and foremost I have to create music that will please the Most High Jah and myself, because no matter how hard you try everyone won’t like your music. Next I learned that its just as important to know the business aspects of the music industry as it is to know about creating and writing music.
What does this album offer listeners?
“Many Lives offers listeners an uplifting spiritual vibe that can be enjoyed by all music lovers. The message of Rastafari, love, peace and unity is one the world needs to hear especially during they times of turmoil. Because my album presents these messages in a tasteful musical format, it will keep listeners rocking and thinking at the same time.”
On the album hits like “Afrika” featuring I-Jah Menelik and “Strongest Woman” are both delightful tributes; while “World Crisis”, “Save the World” and “Jah Teachings” characterize the album’s fundamental message. Overall “Many Lives” brings good vibes.
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