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 The makers of Red Stripe lager, brewed in Jamaica, announced this week the upcoming release of a music project called It Was Written, featuring DJ/production aficionado Johan Hugo and Kingston, Jamaica-based emerging artist Terry Lynn.
The pair created a five-track offering of original music, commissioned by the brewers of Red Stripe to celebrate the worldwide influence, importance and appeal of the rhythms and pulse of Jamaican music.
"We are very excited about this new work from such talented musicians," said Nagisa Manabe of the Red Stripe team. "From chart-topping English rockers to eclectic live performers, the sounds of Jamaican music can be heard around the world in many different genres. We wanted to create a record that captures the essence of this influence and pays tribute to Jamaican artists who have had a positive impact on their country and beyond. We encourage listeners to enjoy this music and drink Red Stripe responsibly."
Inspired by the rhythms and sounds reminiscent of Jamaican music, producer Hugo used the artistic freedom to craft music beds out of samples from classic Jamaican and Jamaican-influenced songs, both famous and obscure -- including "Chase the Devil" (Max Romeo and The Upsetters); "Sexy Sexy" (Guary & Cleyton feat. Fulanito); "Steppin' Out" (Steel Pulse); "Purify Your Heart" (Johhny Osbourne); and "No Coke" (Dr. Alban).
"Terry Lynn delivers the future voice of Jamaican dancehall on the record," explains producer Hugo. "Her Kingston Logic 2.0 album has been earning critical acclaim around the world from The Guardian to The FADER. 'Intrepid, innovative and playful' are just a few of the descriptions for her wide range ... Red Stripe provided us with a unique opportunity to collaborate that we may not have had otherwise."
"I've grown up witnessing first hand how Red Stripe supports Jamaican culture and music, so this project kind of feels like playing for the home team", adds Lynn.
The songs are currently available for free download, exclusively at TheFader.com/RedStripe.
It Was Written will be supported with a music video for the single "Jamaican Girls," remixes and a six-market tour at the end of June. The tour will feature Lynn and Hugo performing at private, by invitation only, events across the US -- includ DC, Miami, Chicago, Austin, Los Angeles, and New York.
Red Stripe beer has been brewed in Jamaica since 1928. Along with import company, Diageo, the brand has a tradition of supporting emerging artists and celebrating optimistic and progressive aspects of the country's culture. They felt Hugo's musical background was the perfect match to produce the project.
The It Was Written is as follows:
"It Was Written"
"Jamaican Girls"
"Need to Find"
"Feast Your Eyes"
"Steppin' Up"
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