The vibrant sounds of the Caribbean are once again making waves on the global music stage, as Warren “Addis” Smith, under his acclaimed moniker The Addis Revolution, has earned a spot on the Grammy ballot for Best Reggae Album with his latest release, “Paradise.” This marks Smith’s fourth appearance on the prestigious ballot, signifying a significant milestone in his enduring career and further highlighting the rich musical talent emanating from the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Island Roots and Early Rhythms
Born on St. Thomas and raised on the idyllic shores of St. John, Warren “Addis” Smith’s musical journey began in his high school years. His early immersion in music led him to join his high school steel orchestra, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion and career. Smith’s deep connection to the Caribbean is evident in his music, a fusion of traditional reggae with contemporary influences, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry of his homeland.
A Decade of Musical Evolution: From New York to The Addis Revolution
In 1986, Smith ventured to the mainland, settling in New York to hone his craft and establish himself within the competitive music scene. During his time in the bustling metropolis, he shared stages and collaborated with a remarkable roster of musical heavyweights, including reggae legends like Jimmy Cliff, Burning Spear, Toots, Ziggy Marley, and Stephen Marley, among many others. After years of carving out a significant niche, Smith eventually returned to his beloved St. John, bringing his seasoned artistry back to the island that shaped his formative years.
It was on St. John that The Addis Revolution project was born in 2012, evolving from his third solo album, ‘No Compromise,’ which itself had garnered three Grammy Award ballot considerations. The formation of The Addis Revolution allowed Smith to channel his extensive experience and musical vision into a cohesive band project, blending reggae with various fusion elements, a style they aptly describe as a newer iteration of reggae fusion.
Crafting “Paradise” with Coral Star Studios
The latest offering, “Paradise,” is the debut album from The Addis Revolution and was meticulously recorded with producer and engineer Allen Clapp at Coral Star Studios in Coral Bay, St. John. Clapp, known for his production prowess, collaborated closely with Smith, who is credited with writing the songs and playing many of the instruments. The album is celebrated for its masterful production and a diverse range of styles, showcasing Smith’s songwriting talent and the exceptional musicianship of all involved, including contributions from Broheem and Pamela Leverette-Love on saxophone and vocals, and Aaron Strickland on lead guitar.
The connection between Smith and Clapp was facilitated by Lauren Magnie, a key figure in the St. John music scene, known for her role in bringing musicians to Coral Star Studios. The studio itself is now home to Good Duck Records, a burgeoning record label representing many St. Johnian bands.
The Grammy Journey and the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Musical Legacy
This nomination for “Paradise” represents Smith’s fourth foray onto the Grammy ballot, a testament to his consistent quality and dedication. The first round of Grammy voting for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards concluded on October 15th, with nominations scheduled to be announced on November 7th. The Best Reggae Album category is highly competitive, with 73 albums submitted for consideration this year alone.
Smith’s Grammy pursuit adds to a growing legacy of recognition for artists from the U.S. Virgin Islands. His achievement follows in the footsteps of other notable island musicians who have graced the Grammy stage, such as Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights and Dion Parsons. The news serves as a significant cultural moment, underscoring the vibrant and influential music scene thriving in the Caribbean.
A New Chapter in a Storied Career
With “Paradise,” The Addis Revolution is not just presenting an album but a rich narrative woven from island life, seasoned artistry, and a deep understanding of musical fusion. Warren “Addis” Smith’s journey, from the high school orchestras of St. John to the international Grammy ballot, is a compelling story of artistic persistence and the enduring power of Caribbean music. The island community and music lovers worldwide eagerly await the nomination announcements, celebrating this latest triumph for a true musical ambassador.