Anthony Cruz The anticipation grew for the release of the well publicized duet from reggae crooner George Nooks and Canadian reggae sensation Steele, and no one has been disappointed. Based on reports from Tuff Gong International, the company responsible for the distribution of this record in Jamaica, the first set of 7′vinyl was sold out in two days, and they are now in the re-manufacturing process of this product. “What’s Wrong Wid Wi”, the title of the song, was written by Steele, and addresses the problem of black on black violence that faces our community.
Steele, a constant promoter of love and unity hooked up with Nooks on his last visit to Toronto, and on hearing the song George who is himself an advocate of togetherness had no hesitation in being a part of this project. Steele flew to Jamaica, where both artists spent a tremendous amount of time promoting the song and eventually shooting the music video, which in itself has brought to life the message that the singers are putting forward. This video is now in heavy rotation on RETV one of Jamaica’s prime music stations.
Steele has been consistent when it comes to delivering solid music, and the preliminary report coming out of Jamaica is that he has been added to the list of “mus listen to artist”. He continues to inspire, and remain true to the fact that his music must be “Uncorrupted”, which oddly enough is the title of his debut CD, that has brought Steele many personal accolades such as, “Male Artist of the Year”, “Album of the Year”, and a Juno nomination for “Best Reggae Recording of the Year”. Still if you should ask Steele about his achievement, he’s always quick to tell you that it is nice to be recognized for the work you do, but to him it’s more important to inspire with your work. Some of Steele’s hits includes “Jah is my Strength”, “Silhouette”, “Greetings”, and “Love TKO”.
George Nooks himself has made an incredible mark on reggae music worldwide. From the days of Prince Mohammed to the current Nooks, hits such as “Stop Spread Propaganda” and more recently, “God is Standing By”, has allowed George to remain on top of his game, and for sure the future is bright for Nooks. George says “this collaboration with Steele was a very easy one, the song itself is very good, and it relates appropriately to the problems we face at this time”.
Radio in Jamaica has definitely gravitated to this song, and “What’s Wrong Wid Wi,” along with another of Steele’s recordings although just a promo ” If It Don’t Work Out” is already getting a fair amount of play, thanks to radio stations such as Hot 102FM, IrieFM, RootsFM, LinkzFM, and VybzFM, to name a few . Before long this song should be on the lips of every reggae lover worldwide, based on the determined effort being put forth by Steele’s Canadian based label MOBS Production, and just on the merit of the song itself. In one of many interviews Steele had in Jamaica, he was once again asked a frequently asked question, what was his opinion on an artist having to be in Jamaica to make it big time in reggae music. With no hesitation Steele was quick to respond,” It is a fact that Jamaica does play a vital role, being the root of reggae, but I believe once the music is being promoted properly and it’s a good song, no one really cares where the artist lives”. He made sure to point out that community radio stations in Canada and other radio stations in Canada and all over the world had been responsible for bringing his music to the forefront, now its time to focus on Jamaica and share with his other brothers and sisters what most of the world already knows, and that is, his determined effort to promote good music.
“What’s Wrong Wid Wi”, is now available on 7′vinyl, and features George Nooks and Steele, there is no version side to this record, as a bonus, side AA features Steele and Isus with a brilliant deliverance of Delroy Wilson’s “Betta Mus Come”.
Steele as always wishes to thank his fans, and all media personnel for their continued support. He acknowledges the fact that without them he’s nothing, therefore he’s always grateful.
Make sure to visit Steele’s website @ www.steelemusic.net in the coming week for updates and great looks from Jamaica.
