As an artist with diverse tastes, Ian Sweetness loves to salute his biggest musical influences, which includes reggae and American Rhythm And Blues singers.

The Jamaican singer covers five of his favorite songs for ‘Champions in Action’, a compilation album produced by Anthony Messam for Wildfire Records, a Philadelphia-based company.

“These are songs that bring back memories, and I love them, so I put my passion and soul into it,” said Ian Sweetness.

The songs he covers are Lou Rawls’ ‘Ain’t That Loving You’ (with Ti’a Smith); Teddy Pendergrass’ ‘Love T.K.O.’ (with Rosie B), Beres Hammond’s ‘I’m in Love With You’ (with Ti’a Smith), Dennis Brown’s ‘If You Want my Loving’ (with Rosie B), and Tyrone Davis’ ‘Can I Change my Mind’ (with Ti’a Smith).

‘Champions in Action’ has 23 songs by artists such as Glen Ricks, Doniki, Roland Burrell and Ken Boothe.

Ian Sweetness believes it is critical for acts like himself to keep making music.

“It’s important because it’s my livelihood, and there are less good vocalists around now. People are crying out for songs that remind them of the good life they are living, so Ian Sweetness is the man who chose to deliver these great songs for the world,” he said.

WRITTEN BY HOWARD CAMPBELL