‘Live From Tuff Gong’ is the name of an album by American singer Brandon Rootz, scheduled for release in December. It was recorded entirely at the legendary studio in Kingston, Jamaica with famed guitarist Earl “Chinna” Smith and his Binghistra acoustic group.
The album has eight songs and is co-produced by Brandon Rootz and Smith. A studio version of ‘Live From Tuff Gong’ is also in the works.
On November 7, Brandon Rootz released the song, ‘Without The Greed’, a collaboration with Luciano. In September, saw the release of ‘You’re Like An Angel’, his digital duet produced by Lloyd “King Jammy“ James.
From the Sonoma region of Northern California, Brandon Rootz first visited Jamaica in 2015. Multiple trips later, he said his knowledge of the Caribbean country has grown tremendously.
“Honestly, when I first came to Jamaica I didn’t know much about the music or artists but of course heard of some of the names from going to Reggae Rising Music Festival. There’s Beres Hammond, Tanya Stephens , of course I was very familiar with Bob Marley and his sons. But I wasn’t too deep into knowing the culture and making the connection to the Jamaican music industry,” he admitted.
With the guidance of James, Brandon Rootz gradually found his footing. Two years ago, he struck up a quick friendship with Luciano with whom he lay tracks for what became ‘Without The Greed’, which features crack session drummer Kirk Bennett and ace saxophonist Dean Fraser.
“My mission is to capture the hearts of the Jamaican people, that they will support my mission, which is to bring glory to all. Bring a frequency that can shift the demonic energy that has brought so much negative vibrations to the world,” said Brandon Rootz.
Written By Howard Campbell