Samory-I does first International tour

Reggae singer Samory-I will embark on his first international tour this month when he heads for a 17-day trip to Europe.

The singer is slated to perform on the Reggae Jam 2016 stage in Germany on July 29, then again at Geel Festival in Belgium, headlined by reggae superstars Tarrus Riley and Beres Hammond.

Though this summer marks his first foray on the international scene, Samory-I has already impressed international producers. Iconic Germany-based sound system and roots-reggae and dub producers Silly Walks Discotheque, considered pioneers of the European sound system scene, recently released Samory-I's song called I Am Gad as part of a 16-track compilation of various artistes. The compilation, titled Smile Jamaica, is in celebration of the dub producers' 25th anniversary.

The song appropriately demonstrates Samory-I smooth, controlled vocals and his long-standing commitment to Rastafari. Other artistes on the compilation include Marcia Griffiths, Assassin, aka 'Agent Sasco', Chronixx and Romain Virgo, among others.

Samory-I, born Samory-Tour Frazer in Kingston, Jamaica, grew up in the Church, where he unwittingly honed his vocal skills. The young singer had reportedly, on occasion, brought congregations to tears with his voice. For some, being able to sing is a lifetime aspiration. For Samory-I, it was a suggestion. "I always knew I could sing," he told THE STAR, "but I never took it seriously."

Bridgett Anderson of First Born Management, who has been responsible for the careers of Garnet Silk and Jahmali, took Samory-I under her wing. With Anderson's guidance, the young artiste performed for the first time at Digicel's Bob Marley Tribute at Emancipation Park in 2013.

Anderson told THE STAR that after the excitement of the European tour, Samory-I will concentrate on finishing up his album, which is to be released before the end of this year. Fans should look out for more collaborations with the iconic German dub producers as well.