Keith Poppin champions social justice

During the 1970s era of black consciousness in Jamaica, Keith Poppin was one of the artistes who kept in touch with developments in Africa, which at the time was besieged by apartheid and colonialism.

The veteran singer retains that awareness, as heard on Africa Calling, his latest song which was released in July.

"Africa is our motherland, so as an artiste I speak to injustices that affect the nation. I'm inspired by the exploits and disadvantages taken of people around the world as it relates to the haves and the have-nots," he said.

The North Carolina-based Poppin wrote and produced Africa Calling after keeping tabs with controversial incidents affecting black people in the United States of America, such as the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

According to Poppin, "Truths and rights always have a message of hope that mankind will put aside their differences and make the world a better place."

The Westmoreland-born Poppin was raised in the central Kingston community of Allman Town. His recording career started in the late 1960s when he was a member of a harmony trio. He went solo in the early 1970s, scoring two hit singles with Envious and Same Thing For Breakfast.