Jonique Gaynor, Staff Reporter
Roy ‘Gramps’ Morgan
Roy ‘Gramps’ Morgan, popular vocalist and member of reggae group Morgan Heritage, has enlisted the help of R&B and soul music heavyweights India Arie, Kenny Rogers and James Ingram for his new solo album, which is expected to be released next year.The group, known for such hits as Down by The River and Senorita, recently announced that there would be a temporary separation so its members could pursue solo projects.
Morgan explained that each member would be focusing on his or her own niche, and said his would be roots, lovers rock and a genre he dubs ‘rockazz’. He emphasised that there is no animosity among the members of the group and added that they would still be performing as Morgan Heritage even while they pursue their individual projects.
A huge fan of reggae
India Arie
The singer, known for his unique throaty sound, said he has been in the studio in Atlanta working on two remixes for India Arie’s album, which is to be released soon. He met the I am Not My Hair singer while at an event in Atlanta and was surprised to learn that she was a huge fan of reggae music.
“I was at a venue in Atlanta and a friend told me she was there and asked if I wanted to meet her. Of course, I said yeah. So, he introduced me and her eyes opened wide and she said, ‘Gramps!’ She told me that the song I did with Buju, Psalm 23, was one of her favourite songs and that she loves reggae and people like Beres and Morgan Heritage,” he said.
She admired his talent, he said, and immediately expressed an interest in working with him. As soon as he completed his tour and work began on her album, the two met.
Double album
They worked on a track called Therapy, which is the first single from Arie’s upcoming album. The single is slated to be released in January and a video, featuring Gramps, is also in the works. Of working with her, he said, “She is amazing. One of the best vocalists I’ve ever heard in my life. It was a joy. There are great things in the future for her and I.”
They also collaborated on a single for Gramps’ album, which will be a double album. “One side will be a fun side and the other side will be a conscious side. I just want my music to touch people’s hearts and to affect people’s lives. The songs will be songs of comfort,” he said.
Duets with Kenny Rogers, Musiq Soulchild, Ziggy Marley and the legendary James Ingram will also be featured on his album.
“These are some of the people that touched my heart and some of my idols,” Morgan explained.
The album is being produced by Don Corleone and Morgan, and will be released on the latter’s label, Dada Son Entertainment.
