Jah Fabio bringing Mexican flavour to Reggae Month

Mexican reggae artiste Jah Fabio has been 'jammin' since he flew into Jamaica on February 1 to celebrate Reggae Month.

Though he's been visiting the island for more than 20 years, this trip marks a special milestone, as it's the first time he's brought the Mexican reggae band, Antidoping.

"I feel really glad to be performing in the birthplace of reggae music. It's more than a dream come true," he shared. "It's my second year performing at Bob Marley's show, and the people enjoyed my performance." What surprised Jah Fabio the most, however, was the exciting reception from locals, which makes him feel like he's on the right track.

"I really never expected that the people here would love my music. I came to perform so people could vibe, but the reaction I get is really a blessing because people love it. Really and truly, I never dreamed of being part of the music fraternity in Jamaica. My dream was to come to Jamaica, see the studios, and record, but to be a part of it, that's a blessing."

Born in Guadalajara--a city more famous for mariachi and tequila than reggae, Jah Fabio's passion for Jamaican music began in the 90's, listening to dancehall.

"The first thing in my ear in the mornings, I was listening to Shabba Ranks, Papa San, Buju Banton, Chaka Demus and Pliers because I liked the fashion at that time," he recalled with a laugh. "I didn't understand, but I loved the music and I liked the look. At that time, I wanted to be a professional baller. Actually, I played third division in a professional team. So mi a good baller enuh."

The artiste, given name Fabio Alejandro Velasco Campos, said that for him, Rasta is a salvation.

"It's not only the music or the message. That is why in my lyrics, I don't confine people to be Rasta to love reggae. The music is for everybody, and that is part of the message that Bob Marley put in his music."

This trip, Jah Fabio immersed himself in the culture beyond the stage. He visited Linstead, where he distributed books at a secondary school's Spanish Day celebration, and brought volleyballs to Paradise, a volleyball team he sponsors. He even laced up his football boots in Tivoli Gardens for a friendly match between Mexicans and Jamaicans. He also recorded a dancehall track at Big Yard Studio and shot the accompanying music video in Tivoli Gardens, where he enjoyed interacting with the children.

"I've seen Capleton's show and Sizzla, and it was a good energy. Seeing the people come out and celebrate Reggae Month was refreshing." He said bringing his band to Jamaica was an important step in sharing reggae's spirit across borders.

"I don't like coming to Jamaica and saying, 'I'm the one-of-a-kind in Mexico doing reggae.' I want to share because it's important [and] that way, you keep the culture."

Band members Kenji (guitarist), Peppe (singer), Rojerio (saxophonist), and Viego (percussionist) were all thrilled to be part of the Jamaican reggae experience.

"I am happy to be in Jamaica, especially during Reggae Month. It's a great opportunity, and all of us are excited to even play with Bongo Herman," Kenji said, beaming. The band recorded at Kingston's famed Harry J Studio, a cornerstone of reggae history. Tara Johnson, managing director of the studio, spoke about the significance of having international artistes like Jah Fabio and Antidoping record there.

"Reggae has always been an international thing. The legends and icons from the 70's paved the way for it to be global. The [sound] was created in that time to ensure our country is exposed all over the world. It has constantly evolved, but it's also been consistent in how it resonates in different corners of the world. Reggae is a gift from Jamaica to the world, and that's why they love it so much." Johnson was also impressed by Antidoping's sound.

"Reggae Month has been evolving and growing every year, and more people are coming to share this experience. It's very warming, and I'm grateful to see how far reggae's impact has reached."

Jah Fabio said that reggae in Mexico lags "10 to 15 years behind", noting that Mexicans are more drawn to old school artistes like Papa Michigan and Yellowman, but don't know the modern dancehall acts. He hopes to bridge the gap.

"If I don't come to Jamaica any other time of the year, I have to come for Reggae Month. Mi love Jamaica and mi love reggae," he said.