‘Reggae always has a message’

Touted as one of the most authentic sound systems in the country, Reggae Rajahs was formed in 2009. Comprising Diggy Dang, Mr Herbalist and DJ MoCity, the trio has brought several roofs down with their tunes all over India.
‘Reggae always has a message’

Known for its syncopated bass lines, off-beat rhythms and raw pulsating energy, reggae has always been considered as the child of innovation. Drawing massive influences from ska and rocksteady, the organic texture of this genre has seduced several musicians in the past.

In fact, reggae lyrics have often dealt with topics ranging from socio-political issues, religion, injustice to love and peace amongst others.

Touted as one of the most authentic sound systems in the country, Reggae Rajahs was formed in 2009. Comprising Diggy Dang, Mr Herbalist and DJ MoCity, the trio has brought several roofs down with their tunes all over India.

“Reggae enables one to tap into their raw emotions. It is 'conscious' music and always comes with a message. It can be spiritually uplifting and catchy at the same time,” said Reggae Rajahs who were in the city to perform as a part of the India Music Week.

Apart from complicated grooves and emphasised melodic lines, their singles have a unique tonal element that captures the attention of all soul music lovers. While organic textures and heavy rhythmic accents highlight the basic structure of their tracks, their meaningful lyrics add some charm to their production.

“One of our songs Make up Your Mind was written at a point in our life when we wanted to push ourselves to achieve our goals. It is a beautiful track and was released on Oneness Records in Germany. And, the instrumental piece is an updated version of an old classic track by The Paragons called High and Windy,” said the trio who first met at a Bob Marley tribute night hosted by DJ MoCity in New Delhi.

Ever since that day, they have been relentlessly pushing reggae music in India.

Most of the songs that the Rajahs play are exclusive tunes recorded by other artistes which are usually customised to their sound. The tonal quality of the modified tracks is vibrant, melodic and characterised by groovy bass lines.

Aside from giving great vibes at their shows, they also like to include a generous dose of all sub genres of reggae including ska, rocksteady and the digital era of dub and dance hall in their sets. Their music draws inspiration from legends like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Gregory Isaacs and even modern day singers like Tarrus Riley, Alborosie and Damian Marley.

According to the trio, music is the answer to all problems of mankind.

“It is the best way to connect with people. And, reggae is extremely powerful music that comes from the ghettos of Kingston, Jamaica. It has been uplifting the spirits of people of all caste, colour and creed throughout the world for the past 50 years,” said the Rajahs signing off.

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The New Indian Express
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