Iley Dread eager to share ‘Musical Upliftment’
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Iley Dread gets ready to release his first reggae album in a decade.
After more than a decade since the release of his last reggae album, Jamaican-Canadian singer, producer, promoter and record label executive, Iley Dread, is preparing to release Musical Upliftment.
A star-studded project, it promises to celebrate authentic Jamaican reggae while marking a major milestone for his Kings of Kings label. It features 12 tracks on the LP, while the CD edition includes four bonus tracks, giving fans a total of 16 songs. Released on the Kings of Kings imprint, Musical Upliftment boasts collaborations with Queen of Reggae Marcia Griffiths, Anthony B, Jah Mason and Turbulence.
The production team comprises Stephen Marley, Dean Fraser, Sangi Davis, Eddie Bullens and Mr. Ifield.
Musical Upliftment is Iley Dread’s first reggae album since Unleashed, which was released in 2015. However, his most recent album was the 13-track gospel collection, Joyful Noise, released by VP Records in 2024. The singer has also released numerous singles over the same period.
Iley Dread, whose given name is Colin Levy, shared that the inspiration for the new album came from an unexpected source.
“A wonderful human being named Andrew Jonah, a member of the Ghana royal family, advised me that he is inspired and motivated by my music and encouraged me to do this album,” the Canada-based Iley Dread disclosed.
He added that Jonah has pledged his support beyond words.
“He also promised me that he will get my music established across the continent of Africa. Mr. Jonah also invested financially in this album,” the reggae artiste revealed.
Among the collection, one song holds special significance for the veteran entertainer.
“ Strength of My Life is my favourite song because it is my testimony,” Iley Dread, who does not shy away from speaking about his time in incarceration, said.
The release of Musical Upliftment also forms part of the 31st anniversary celebrations of Kings of Kings Records, one of Jamaica’s most respected reggae and dancehall labels. To commemorate the milestone, a special album listening event and concert is scheduled for December 16 at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in St Andrew.
“It will be an unforgettable celebration of Jamaican reggae, culture and sound system music,” said Iley Dread.
A stalwart on the Canada’s reggae scene, Colin ‘Iley Dread’ Levy’s contribution to the music in that country was recognised in 2024 at the 8th ReggaeXclusive Recognition Awards. His Kings of Kings Productions has produced songs by artistes, such as Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown, Sizzla, Luciano, and Norris Man.
With its blend of inspirational messages, accomplished musicianship and collaborations featuring some of reggae’s most respected voices, Musical Upliftment is shaping up to be both a personal statement from Iley Dread and a fitting tribute to three decades of the enduring Kings of Kings legacy.
entertainment@gleanerjm.com