Grammy-winning roots reggae veteran Winston Rodney, better known as Burning Spear, has been making fiery, politically driven music for 35 years. In that time, he has become one of the most revered artists of the genre, illuminating his lyrics with black history and elements of Rastafarianism. On his new album, Jah Is Real, he continues his musical mission of spiritual upliftment and mental expansion. The CD was released Aug. 17, on what would have been the 121th birthday of black nationalist leader Marcus Garvey. Jah Is Real is the third release on Burning Spear Records, the indie label the singer-songwriter founded in 2002 with his wife, Sonia. The 63- year-old artist, who splits his time between New York City and his native Jamaica, headlines the Recher Theatre on Saturday.
How has being an independent artist influenced your music?
I'm in control of myself. I take yes or no from no one. That's one thing. Based on the freedom of what I'm doing, there's a lot of richness in the music. I try to maintain what I'm doing, what I've always done. But still there's something different with the musicians.
You got [bassist] Bootsy Collins and [keyboardist] Bernie Worrell on this album, legendary musicians in funk and R&B.
We thought it made sense to have those musicians. Bootsy played the bass so relaxed. It brings a light to the record. It was surprising. There was no problem, a sign of a professional musician. Both played like they had played reggae forever.
The album was released on Marcus Garvey's birthday. Was that intentional?
It's something we really wanted to do, yes. As an independent, I could do that. We've been ripped off so many times. Being independent, it's like opening a door for me and other people.
The album sounds freer, very relaxed but the political fire is still there. I love the horn sections.
It's a lot different based on melody and lyric arrangements. The changes have to do with freedom, so the whole essence of the album is different. In a way, I guess, I'm a different musician - a free one.
See Burning Spear at the Recher Theatre, 512 York Road in Towson, at 8 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $25 and are available through Ticketmaster by calling 410-547-7328 or going to ticketmaster.com.
-- by Rashod D. Ollison
09/04/08 >> 
