Following
his sold out show at London's Electric Brixton where he headlined the Ram
Jam series with legendary David Rodigan, Protoje is set to return to the UK in
October with his Ancient Future tour. Renowned for his high energy
live performances with his incredible live band The Indiggnation, they will
perform across seven major cities. We had a chat with Protoje to find out more
on his new album, UK tour and his top tracks to listen to on the road.
Firstly tell us about your journey into music as you come from a very
musical family?
I started to write music because I wanted to express myself. Music was
the way I could communicate to people. I used to see my parents on stage and I
always wanted to be doing something like that eventually. I felt real
comfortable up there.
Your collaboration with Chronixx on the track Who Knows, was a
massive hit and one of the biggest reggae songs last year. How did the link-up
come about?
When Chronixx was just starting out he reached out and we started to
link. We always spoke about doing something together, but in the right timing.
When we eventually came together to collaborate, the timing felt right and Who
Knows was the song. We thought it could really make an impact for our
generation of reggae and give thanks for the response it continues to receive.
What are your views on the cultural movement ‘Reggae Revival’?
I always wanted to be a part of something special with music, a part of
a larger whole, and I feel like I'm in good company doing music. It inspires me
to work harder and raise the level of music I’m putting out. I really feel good
about the number of artists out there that inspire me making Jamaican music.
You’ve announced a UK tour for October 2015 where you will be performing
across seven major cities. Are you looking forward to this?
Yes, the UK is always part of my focus. It's very important to me. It is
a place I respect highly for music. For my music to resonate there would be great.
When we tour in Europe, English is often the second language for many
countries. It's interesting to see the difference in response when English is
the first language.
Your shows are always full of high energy positive vibes, what can we
expect from the tour?
Right now we have been on the road for two-months, so we are in a groove
and the whole sound is in a really good place. It's a very authentic sound.
We're bringing something fresh, armed with the Ancient Future and some big
tunes.
How long have you been playing with your band The Indiggnation?
Five years.
Tell us about your new album Ancient Future, how does this differ
from your last two releases?
I really wanted to just write what was on my mind, what I was feeling...
More internal thoughts and see how that could inspire people. Sonically, I
wanted it to feel like the 80's but still futuristic. This is the first time
I've gotten that to really work - where every sound involved was made
specifically for the album. What will you be listening to on tour? Check out my 'Tracks on Tour' playlist below or click HERE.
Have you got any messages for your fans?
I always want to thank my fans for the support they have been giving me
and my music. I really appreciate it. I look forward to playing the music in
front of them and hope to see them at an upcoming show!
Protoje brings his Ancient Future tour to the UK in October, tickets are
on sale now and available HERE.