Tarrus Riley salutes Marcia Griffiths on her 72nd birthday

Reggae crooner Tarrus Riley has urged fans to salute the ones they love because they cannot do so every day.

His latest single Love Salute is the last recording he made before the passing of his younger sister Jaffa Joy Riley. It is recorded on a reconstructed version of a 90s rhythm which featured Marcia Griffiths' single Hold On, produced by Phillip 'Fatis' Burrell. The new rhythm is produced by Burrell's son Kareem.

Griffiths' voice is sampled on the track but Riley told THE STAR that while he didn't find any inspiration off of her song, "the sample of her voice does make the song sound very sweet." The singer also expressed how Griffiths, who turns 72 today, plays a greater role in his life.

"Marcia Griffiths is how people describe her, the queen, such a cool person. You know for years we live like family. She is my father's [Jimmy Riley] good friend for years, close to my mom also. A real nice lady whose talent speaks for itself as she stand the test of time," he said. "She has inspired me consciously and subconsciously just watching how she move, how she carry herself, she is a real woman... love to Marcia Griffiths every time."

The production shows the creative expressions of two second-generation reggae professionals coming together to send a positive message and stimulate movement.

"We grow up in the 90s so definitely there is some nostalgia there always inspiring. You only grow up once, and Love Salute gives you whole heap ah vibes. It feels good to represent plus share with the nowadays vibes by providing that mixture," he said.

Riley said that his wish for Griffiths was not only to mark her birthday but it was more of a 'love salute' for her contribution in his life as a strong female influence.

He said it was a reminder to express love and never take love for granted. "Knowing she still deh yah wid we, we jus' want everyone to give her all of her salutes and all of her flowers right now," he said.