Serengetti, Hope Zoo

We had gathered for the launch of “Lily Of Da Valley” Jesse Royal’s debut album. The event was amazing; it was beautiful to see all the fans come out, despite the rainy weather we had a packed venue. The Serengetti space in Hope Zoo is home to the the Rib Kage restaurant. It was my first time at the newly formed restaurant. The venue was arranged to fit a large stage, as well as space for standing and a few seating options. The green surroundings gave a feeling of being in a forest, a people filled forest though. The venue was filled was warm energy as people milled about, waiting for the start of the show.

The night began with a short question and answer segment; where Debbie Bissoon asked Jesse Royal questions. To name a few, she asked what was his inspiration for the name of the album, what he stood for as a Rastafarian, and for a couple words to young artistes on how to get motivation to pursue this life. He said he got inspiration from his Grandma, when he was younger she would take him to church with her, and he enjoyed hearing the choir singing, “Lily of the Valley.”  As a Rastafarian Jesse Royal is fighting for love, family and strength. To give a few wise words to upcoming artistes, his advice is to “follow what’s inside you…” He went on to say there’s a voice inside of each and everyone, and once you reason with yourself and get to understand the being that is you.; you will figure out how to persist on your journey. Only you can figure it out.

Three of Jesse’s favourites off the album are 400 Years, Always Be Around, and Jah Will See Us Through. He explained that 400 Years is a reminder that the struggle nuh done,  Always Be Around is from the birth of his first child, it’s telling his daughter, he will always be around. And Jah Will See Us Through is a special song to him, it gave hopefulness in certain situations during this year, this song iterated that, “There’s a God that run bout yah and no weapon formed against you shall prosper.” To close the Q&A segment they played songs off the album for us.

After a short break Jesse took the stage with his full band, firstly giving us 400 Years. He almost went through the entire album. Anyone that’s a fan can attest to his soulfulness while performing. He gained the attention of everyone in the crowd as he sang, we could feel the energy and intent of his songs as he performed. He sang Life Sweet, Stand Firm, Roll Me Something Good, Real Love, Rock It Tonight, Generation, Jah Will See Us Through, Modern Day Judas, and Always Be Around. He ended the lovely night with a meet and greet with the fans.

“Lily Of Da Valley” by Jesse Royal is now available worldwide, purchase the album at JesseRoyalMusic.

Follow @JesseRoyal1 on all social media platforms.