Honorebel back to his roots

Howard Campbell, Gleaner Writer

South Florida deejay Honorebel returns to his dancehall/reggae roots on Honorebel Presents Reggae Series Number 1, a compilation album featuring new and established artistes.

Recently released digitally by Zojak Distributors, the set is built around the Soundcloud beat which features Honorebel on songs with Wayne Wonder (Put Your Drinks Up), Pressure (I Wish) and Akon (One More Slam).

Lady Saw, upcoming artistes Rachel Rene and Selena Serrano also contribute songs to the album which sees Honorebel taking another crack at the dancehall/reggae market. Last year, he appeared on producer Flava McGregor's Throw Back 'riddim' alongside Etana, Gyptian and Sanchez.

He says his focus is making more than just hot beats. "I want to keep my name vibrant as far as reggae and dancehall is concerned. But we want to make 'riddims' that are not dated, they got to have staying power," Honorebel said.

Born Richard Bailey, Honorebel has been around the music business since the 1990s when he learned the ropes at singer/producer Sugar Minott's Youthman Promotions in Kingston.

After immigrating to the United States, he recorded for several producers including the respected Willie Lindo's Heavybeat Records and Luther 'Luke' Campbell, the controversial former leader of outrageous rap group, 2 Live Crew.

Through Campbell, he was introduced to the growing South Florida dance and hip-hop scene. He has made a name on the dance circuit with the platinum-selling Cuba-born rapper Pitbull.

As part of his promotion for his new album, Honorebel is scheduled to perform in Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya this month.