Jah Mason Calls Out Artists Who Prioritize Flashy Lifestyles Over Meaningful Music

Jah Mason is a powerhouse in reggae music. Known for his passionate performances and meaningful songs, he connects with fans all over the world. Yet, he’s worried about the current state of reggae, especially the direction some new artists are taking.

He believes many young musicians focus too much on money and fame, often glamorizing the wrong things, like scamming. “Most of the songs I hear from the youth are about stealing,” he points out. He feels that music should be more than just a quick ticket to riches.

Jah Mason encourages aspiring artists to create music that inspires change and conveys important messages. He wants them to understand that music can help improve society in Jamaica. “Some youths just want to sing for fancy cars. After that, they’re lost because they didn’t come into this with a true mission,” he explains.

He has noticed a big shift in dancehall music, especially since the COVID pandemic. “The vibe has changed,” he says. While he respects that each generation will shape culture in its own way, Jah Mason believes that artists still have a responsibility to share positive stories through their music.

“If we ignore the issues that matter, we’re not making progress,” he says. Jah Mason, whose real name is Andre Corey Johnson, is getting ready to release his 20th studio album in 2025 with Brotherhood Records from France. His impactful lyrics often touch on themes like spirituality and social justice. Popular songs like My Princess Gone, Run Come Love Me, and Babylon Rise have made waves around the globe.

Many fans relate deeply to My Princess Gone. It’s a heart-wrenching song about a lost love that resonates with listeners. While some think it’s about migration, it’s actually based on Jah Mason’s own experience. His girlfriend left him after hearing false rumors about him, and he returned home to find his apartment empty.

“I came back with money, but she was gone. I had to find a song to express my feelings,” he recalls. After some struggles getting the song recorded, it eventually became a huge hit, first reaching number one in Trinidad and then in Jamaica.

Jah Mason emphasizes the song’s lasting power, especially in places like France, where reggae has a strong following. He loves performing it and seeing how everyone connects with it, no matter where he goes.

His journey started in 1998 when he first toured Europe. Not long after, he had his first major hit with Run Come Love Me Tonight, featuring Jah Cure. For Jah Mason, touring is essential. It helps spread messages of love and righteousness, the essence of reggae music. “The more you perform, the more your fan base grows,” he says.

Looking ahead, Jah Mason is excited for the upcoming ‘Roots and Culture’ tour starting in Berlin on March 1. He’ll be performing in various cities, including Dortmund and Amsterdam, before wrapping up in Paris on March 27.

Organized by Michel Jovanovic from Mediacom and Free People Entertainment, the tour will also feature other talented artists like Lutan Fyah and newcomer Zhayna.