The wondering spirit of Keithus I
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The wondering spirit of Keithus I
Since his youth in Kingston, Jamaica, Keithus I recalls relatives and teachers telling him he had a “wondering spirit”. That curious nature carried over into adulthood — and into his music.
‘Worship And Praise’, the roots singer’s sixth album, was released on May 8. The nine-song set is co-produced by Keithus I and Delroy “Phatta” Pottinger for Jahdynasty Production, the former’s company.
“‘Worship and Praise’ is my most spiritual album to date, as I’m growing to be more closely with the Most High, knowing the love and mercies He has given us all. He loves us. In my humble way I’m saying we must worship and praise His Creation,” reasoned Keithus I, who lives in Connecticut.
Three songs from ‘Worship And Praise’ were released prior to May 8. Those are the title track, ‘His Will’ and ‘Faith’. Fred Locks and Teddy Dan, singers Keithus I has known for some time, contribute ‘United States of Africa’ and ‘Mercy Plea’, respectively, to the album.
‘The Message’, ‘Truth’ and ‘End Time’ are some of the other songs on ‘Worship And Praise’ which hit the market four years after ‘Truth is The Way’, his previous album. The inquisitiveness first spotted in his childhood plays a significant role in his songwriting.
“My approach to songwriting comes from the wondering spirit that I have. I’m very observant of life’s experiences, always searching my thoughts for answers to experiences and situations in this life journey,” said Keithus I.
Helping to get his message across are some of reggae’s top musicians including guitarists Mitchum “Khan” Chin, Paul “Wrong Move” Crosdale and bassist Donald “Danny Bassie” Dennis of The Firehouse Crew; keyboardists Robbie Lyn and Franklyn “Bubbler” Waul, drummers Kirk Bennett and Mark Dawson, bassist Flabba Holt and percussionist Hector Lewis.
Keithus I (real name Milton Samuels) was raised in Allman Town, a middle-class community in Kingston. It was once the stomping ground of B B Seaton, Horace Andy, Carl Dawkins and Keith Poppin.
While he was drawn to roots-reggae in the 1970s, football also got his attention. It was while playing the game at semi-pro level in Montreal, Canada that he made his recording debut in 1975 with ‘Red Hot’ which featured bassist Aston “Familyman” Barrett, drummer Carlton Barrett and keyboardist Tyrone Downie of The Wailers.
‘Then And Now’, his first album, was released in 2012. It was followed four years later by ‘Changes’.
(Photo contributed)
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