Protoje Reclaims Traditional Reggae Sound

Protoje, a prominent artist in Jamaica's Reggae Revival movement, is releasing his seventh studio album, "The Art of Acceptance," on April 17. This new work focuses on reclaiming and reviving traditional Jamaican reggae sounds, moving away from hybrid styles. The album includes collaborations with reggae icons Damian and Stephen Marley, artists Protoje cites as inspirations.

Recently, Protoje headlined the Lost in Time music festival in Kingston, which celebrated Reggae Month. The event, held at Hope Gardens, featured artists like Lila Iké, Jesse Royal, and Mortimer. Protoje's performance marked his first local appearance in nearly seven years and served as a significant platform for his peers and the island's vibrant music scene.

Protoje's career has seen global recognition, including Grammy nominations and performances at major festivals like Coachella. His independent label, In.Digg.Nation Collective, has partnered with RCA. The upcoming album's theme of acceptance reflects a mindset of positive radiation and spiritual growth, influenced by Rastafari philosophy.

Born Oje Ken Ollivierre, Protoje comes from a musical family, with his mother being singer Lorna Bennett and his father a former calypso king. His breakthrough came with the 2015 album "Ancient Future" and its hit single "Who Knows." "The Art of Acceptance" aims to elevate authentic reggae to global production standards while honoring the legacy of Jamaican producers like Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare.