Four Surprising Things about Luciano the Messenjah
The hallmark of reggae music can mean different things to different people. For many, it's the signature rhythms and style of Bob Marley; for others, the warm clime and rich history of Jamaica. But to any ardent reggae fan today, the answer is simple: Luciano.
A native of Jamaica with over 40 albums under his belt, Luciano's music is heavily influenced by Marley's "One Love" movement. Now, he's among the most recognizable figures defining reggae style today. So whether you’ve been a fan since Moving Up or are new to the genre, here are four facts you probably didn't know about The Messenjah:
His name isn't Luciano
Born Jepther McClymont in Davyton, Jamaica, he was dubbed “Luciano” after being compared to opera legend Luciano Pavarotti. With a range that stretches from a rich baritone up to a strong falsetto, Luciano's impeccable inflection, tone, range and pitch make it easy to see the similarities despite their vastly different musical styles.
He worked in textiles before music
“Before I entered the music fraternity, I was working my way up the professional ladder as an upholsterer. I worked with Campbell’s Upholstery on Law Street in downtown Kingston and then moved on to Masters Upholstery which was at the LOJ Complex on Norman Road,” he shared. “Up to this day, a bredrin of mine that I made a loveseat [for] told me them still have it."
He has 2 GRAMMY nominations
Luciano's albums A New Day and Zion Awake were nominated for Best Reggae Album of the Year at the 44th and 58th GRAMMY Awards, respectively. Both serve as apt reminders that Luciano stands among the most important and influential reggae singers in decades.
He's on the Rolling Stone Magazine's Top 200 Greatest Singers of All Time list
When comprising the list, Rolling Stone stated that "in all cases, what mattered most to us was originality, influence, the depth of an artist’s catalog, and the breadth of their musical legacy…they can remake the world just by opening their mouths." Sitting at 143 on the list, Luciano stands as a testament to just that. His musical catalogue extends back to the '90s and, after hearing the strains of “Sweep Over My Soul” or “It’s Me Again Jah”, it's impossible to not notice the influence his grounded reggae has had on the genre.
Luciano the Messenjah performs in the Jack Singer Concert Hall on May 18th. Visit our website to learn more.
