Cezar salutes reggae music on new single

Recording artiste Cezar knows first-hand the vibe and the power of reggae music to move people, and like many, he believes much more can be done to promote and preserve the genre.

His love for it and for Jamaican music in general serve as the inspiration behind his latest single, Reggae Music Non-Stop.

"[The idea] came from me reflecting on the experience of Jamaican music culture and trying to articulate some of that experience into song. I wanted to try to capture some of that feeling, and celebrate the influence and contribution of our musical culture and musicians as a whole," said Cezar. "I think every Jamaican, or fan of our music, knows the energy and joy it brings."

Reggae Music Non-Stop was released on April 4. Cezar produced the track and played all the instruments. He believes that reggae music is tremendously influential.

"I mean, we have also been influenced by other genres, but we have been able to take that and create our unique brands of expression. Like this song says, we gave the world mento, ska, rocksteady, reggae, dub, hip-hop, dancehall. And from these, spun off other genres like UK ska and their punk scene, reggaeton and more," he said.

"Influence is a continuous cycle between cultures, but Jamaican music moves people in a special way, whether rhythmically or emotionally in the message. You hear our music aligned with places far removed from us, which says a lot about its value and power ... . I believe Jamaica is one of the most influential nations on earth," Cezar added.

A video, which was directed by Simon Mais of Fearless Creativity, was also released with the song.

Born Cezar Cunningham, the singer has written, produced and played on several recordings. His musical journey began while at Howard University, where he and producer Omar Clennon took up writing and recording while earning degrees in architecture.

Some of his recent releases include Morning in Gideon, featuring Jerry Wonda of the Fugees, and Sizzla and DJ Buddha on the remix, as well as Can't Hold My Heart. Another release, Keep On Trying, was licensed by Coca-Cola International and used as part of the brand's Beijing Olympics campaign.\