Modern reggae is increasingly dominated by solo artists, marking a shift from an era when bands frequently emerged with chart-topping hits. Over the past decade, the reggae revival movement has seen only a handful of bands endure.
Groups like Raging Fyah, Zinc Fence, and Nommadz—once fixtures in the genre—have either disbanded or gone dormant in the last seven years. However, Jah Rockaz is proving that the energy of a live band remains irreplaceable.
Named World Music Views’ “Bring Back The Band” Artist of the Week, Jah Rockaz is on a mission to revive the raw, unfiltered power of reggae music performed live.
“We formed out of a passion for live music and, more specifically, reggae,” says frontman Obrian Williams. “Even back in high school in Jamaica, I knew I wanted my own band. I had a deep love for reggae and the bands that created this music. The legends before us inspired me.”
The Meaning Behind Jah Rockaz
The name Jah Rockaz is more than just a cool moniker—it’s a philosophy. “Jah” represents their spiritual grounding, a deep reverence for the Most High, while “Rockaz” embodies their intense, bass-heavy sound. “We create a powerful fusion—thundering drums, echoing keyboards, psychedelic guitar riffs—built on the heavy basslines that define reggae,” Williams explains.
The Evolution of a Band
Williams isn’t new to the band dynamic. He’s been down this road before, and the experience shaped his approach with his last band now defunct due to a clash of personalities. “Managing a six-person band with different visions and levels of commitment can be challenging. Not everyone understands that success is a journey, not a destination. That’s why I now have a two-member core and hire the rest of the talent,” he says.
Why More Reggae Bands Exist in the U.S. Than in Jamaica
Reggae is Jamaica’s gift to the world, but ironically, more reggae bands thrive in the U.S. than in its birthplace. Williams has a theory: “In the U.S., there’s more appreciation for the process, the grind, and the business of music. Bands are willing to sacrifice, invest, and build longevity. In Jamaica, many chase quick money without laying the proper foundation, and that approach doesn’t translate well when they try to perform internationally.”
Williams respects the new wave of reggae acts outside of Jamaica. His top picks? Stick Figure, Billboard’s top living reggae artist for the last six years, Dirty Heads, Slightly Stoopid, Grammy nominated singer Collie Buddz, and Rebelution. As for his personal musical inspirations, the list is a mix of reggae greats and genre-blending pioneers: Stick Figure, Sean Paul, Sizzla, Bob Marley, Third World, and Morgan Heritage.
The Reggae Grammy Debate
The reggae Grammy has long been a subject of discussion within the industry, and Williams has his eyes on the prize. “I’m working towards winning one someday. I believe it’s a fair award that recognizes those who have put in the groundwork and executed their business properly.”
Reggae Month: A Step in the Right Direction?
February is Reggae Month in Jamaica, a time dedicated to celebrating the island’s most influential genre. While Williams appreciates the effort, he thinks the music deserves more. “It’s a fantastic move by Jamaica, but reggae needs to be highlighted beyond just one month per year. It’s too important culturally and globally.”
New Music: ‘Reggae is Healing’
Jah Rockaz’s latest release set for February 21 is part of their mission to give reggae a third wave and reach the pop fusion markets. Titled “Reggae is Healing,” the single is produced under Williams’ independent label, BriWills Music. “The title speaks for itself—reggae has the ability to heal, uplift, and inspire,” he says.
To celebrate the release of the track Jah Rockaz will be on show at Jangas bar lounge on February 26 in Kingston, Jamaica.
Watch their Tv performance below and look for more from Jah Rockaz all week on World Music Views:
