Nesbeth: The RAPstation Artist Spotlight

Hip-hop essentially began in Jamaica. Kingston-native Kool Herc grew up hearing the sounds of the Jamaican neighborhoods, which included lively dancehall parties and “toasting,” the DJ’s accompanying speech to their music. In 1967, he emigrated to the Bronx, New York and took that style with him to 1520 Sedgwick Avenue. Toasting became emceeing and, of course, the rest is history. It’s only natural that reggae and hip-hop are mentioned in the same breath.  Reggae artist Nesbeth grew up in Trench Town, West Kingston on the island of Jamaica, an area often referred to as “The Concrete Jungle” due to the high crime rates and constant economic struggles. Music was the one bright spot in his life, and soon he began to experiment with recording his own voice and carving out his own unique style.  In his new video for “My Dream,” it’s evident he appreciates every opportunity his talents have afforded him, no matter how big or small. Additionally, his solo work, collaborations and leanings towards philanthropy showcase his own perseverance, while expressing his political ideologies and reflecting the colorful works of the artists who continue to inspire him—Bob Marley, Whitney Houston, Lauryn Hill, Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, and K’naan, to name a few.  After the 2014 release of his EP Victory, Nesbeth moved on in 2015 to perform at the world-famous “Rebel Salute” in Jamaica then traveled to Europe to perform at the “Reggae Jam” in Germany and “Reggae Geel” in Belgium, earning a new and wider fanbase. Soon after, MTV Iggy named Nesbeth one of “11 Jamaican reggae artists that is keeping roots reggae alive.”  Check out the video for “My Dream” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wt9vsk82yqE and please visit http://nesbethreggae.com/ to get to know him better.