BTD Interviews Musical Artist Koulie

Hello Koulie! It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am very interested in learning more about your artistry and vision, but before we dig into that. I read that you were born in Miami but now you are in Jamaica. How did you end up there?

Greetings In the name of His Imperial Majesty… Emperor Haile Selassie I Jah!! Rastafari!! King Of Kings Lord of Lords Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah!! Earth Rightful Ruler And The Queen Omega Empress Menen.. How good and how pleasant it is to have this opportunity; I must say I do not reside in Jamaica right now. I reside in Georgia. I do spend time in Jamaica.

I also read that your mother was a background singer for Beres Hammond. How has her career inspired your own path in music?

Yes you are correct, I mother is the reason why I am able to have a chance in the Reggae genre now.. The foundation that she laid for I is the very foundation I stand on now. So with that being said, I am able to stand tall!! Selah!! I mother was also signed as an artist with Harmony House and went on the road with a lot of power house Reggae artist that exist today!!

Can you tell our BTD Radio listeners about your early musical influences and how your family background shaped your passion for reggae?

Besides mama and her musical journey, I grew up in a musical family. I Grandfather played the guitar very well and would play music every weekend. Family would gather at the house I grew up In with I Grandparents and we would hold positive vibes!! I early musical influences are ; Simon & Garfunkel, Don Mclean, Hemptones, Alton Ellis, Congos, Lee Scratch Perry just to name a few!!

What is your approach to crafting lyrics that resonate with youth and spread messages of courage?

I only go off Inspiration from Jah!! Whatever Jah say is what I record. The music will resonate with who it shall, the demographic it resonates with is something I could never control.

I like your style! You mentioned turning negatives into positive energy in your music, right on!  Can you share an example of this process in your song writing?

The process of making music within itself is positive!! Keeps I balanced and positive. When the people listen hopefully, they hear it. One Love.

Your song “Rockers” totally puts that positive vibe on. Just hearing you sing the lyrics dreadlocks flying through the air just makes me happy. Can you share with this what that song is about?

The song is about loving Reggae music and the positive vibrations it brings. If the people want to be a Rocker you must; Love Jah, Love Thyself, And Love Reggae music. Simple.

 

What was it like working with Sizzla Kalonji? How did that collaboration influence the “Rockers” single?

I already had the song recorded and Sizzla Kalonji Loved it so he was obliged to collaborate and give I ah strength. I give thanks to Sizzla forever, he truly didn’t have to do this for I so it is a privilege to work with him. It was and will always be an honor to same audio space with such an Icon. The musical inspiration for this song is Jacob Miller & The Inner Circle. Also the movie Rockers a Reggae Classic.

Your track “Mama” caught my ear. It’s so happy and inspiring for any mom out there. I take it that your mama has heard your sweet song? You’ve got to tell us what she thought of this beautiful song about her?

She couldn’t do anything but smile. She loves it and is very appreciative.

Well, speaking of your mama who created a great son, I am sure she enjoyed your performances at a young age. How did those early experiences shape your confidence as a performer?

I built I confidence performing in a club named “Vibes” Nightclub. Located in Decatur, Georgia. I learned how to control crowds, be comfortable in front of large crowds of people etc. I will always give thanks to the owner for that.

Can you describe a memorable moment from one of your performances that really stood out to you?

During one of I performances at Vibes Nightclub the entire audience at the show came on stage while I was performing and started jumping and dancing for the entire duration of the song. Great Times…

What message do you hope to convey through your music, especially to younger audiences?

The Most High is REAL!! Seek Jah first and everything else will be added unto you.

What do you think sets you apart from other emerging reggae artists in the industry today?

I don’t really seek to be set apart. Jah gives us all gifts; I’d rather focus on our similarities rather than our differences.

What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist in the reggae scene, and how have you overcome them?

No real challenges worthy of discussing. Ask I this question some years from now and I am sure I will have more to share.

So, with all this great musical work, what do you do when you are not creating music?

Quality time with family, read books, hike up mountains, and working on developing more mental discipline.

You have a great career ahead of you, looking ahead, what are your goals for your music career over the next few years?

While man plans… Jah Laughs… I will only be doing what Jah has written in I future and so we will just have to see what that is. I give thanks and truly appreciate, Love this Opportunity. Selah!!