Since settling in Germany 25 years ago, singer/musician Keith Powell Jr has worked with musicians and artists from all walks of life. He has never lost his Jamaican-ness which includes a passion for making reggae. 

On April 23, he releases “Heart to Heart”, his third song of the year, on his Roughhouse label which is based in the city of Dortmund. 

Powell admits making music with, and for others, while maintaining a solo career can be a task. 

“I do think working as an artist and a producer is sometimes very challenging. Because of musical choice instrumentation and allowing yourself to be a distance from your music, one tends to be very hard on yourself thinking at times it is not good enough,” he explained. “So, yes to sum it all up it's a blessing and a curse working as a producer and an artist at the same time.” 

Like his previous singles (“Rest Well in my Arms” and “In Love Again”), Powell delivers hard-driving live reggae on “Heart to Heart”. It’s the sound he learned to appreciate in Jamaica and one that Germans and Europeans generally favor. 

Powell learned the musical ropes from his father, Keith senior, a guitarist who backed Dennis Brown and Bunny Wailer. He encouraged his son to practice profusely, advice Powell Jr credits for making him a disciplined musician. 

“Peace and Inspiration”, his fifth album, was released last year. 

  Written By Howard Campbell