Jamaican reggae artiste Yaadcore is merging spirituality, history and global black culture on his upcoming Rasta Time EP, led by a powerful new single that revisits Rastafari teachings while drawing connections to today’s wellness movement. Released during Black Music Month via Mixto Records and 12 Yaad Records, “Rasta Time” pairs Yaadcore with Nigerian producer Jay Scilla in a cross-continental collaboration rooted in consciousness, culture and African unity.
The single explores the spiritual legacy of former Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie while reflecting on the resilience of Rastafari communities through decades of adversity. Throughout the track, Yaadcore highlights the long-standing “Ital” lifestyle promoted within Rastafari culture long before veganism became a global trend. “Rastafari culture was the first people to promote and encourage ‘Ital’ consumption before the word ‘Vegan’ even was a thing,” Yaadcore explained. “Showing that the Rastaman is connected to the root of creation and the creator, not to the mainstream livity enforced by the system created by man.”
Meanwhile, the opening verse of “Rasta Time” revisits the historic arrival of Haile Selassie in Jamaica and the cultural impact that moment had on Rastafari followers. Yaadcore described the verse as “very powerful and important,” noting that it references “the sighting of God in flesh, straight from the motherland.” He also reflected on the social tensions surrounding marijuana prohibition during that era, explaining that despite heavy restrictions, “government officials had no choice but to turn a blind eye,” symbolising “people power and the strength in numbers.”
The track also marks a new creative chapter for the Mandeville-born artiste. Nigerian producer Jay Scilla crafted the original beat before Yaadcore expanded the record with live guitar work from Christopher Campbell. Recorded at Yaadcore’s own 12 Yaad Records studio in September 2024, the song was mixed and dubbed by Nile Browne, also known as Rive Nile, son of legendary reggae producer Cleveland Browne of the iconic Steely & Clevie duo, before being mastered by Natural High.
As anticipation builds for the forthcoming Rasta Time EP, Yaadcore says listeners can expect more conscious music and immersive live performances rooted in authenticity and spiritual connection. “Just look out for more music and the upcoming project ‘Rasta Time’,” he said, “and look forward to playing some live music for whosoever may hear, creating memorable experiences.”
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