For our March virtual Last Sundays event the National Gallery of Jamaica will feature a performance by Roots Percussionist. The virtual programme will premiere on both our YouTube and IGTV platforms at 1:30pm on March 28, 2021.
A two-time Grammy Nominated musician, Hector “Roots Percussionist” Lewis is a Jamaican Percussionist, Drummer, Vocalist and Music Director. He is currently the background vocalist and percussionist for the world renowned Reggae band, Chronixx and Zincfence Redemption and is endorsed by Regal Drumsticks from the United States as well as Tycoon Percussion in Thailand.
His love for music began in his days at church in his hometown of Spanish Town. This was bolstered by his mother, the talented and legendary Barbara Jones, who had a major influence on his approach to music and the creative arts. It was this passion that led him to studying at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts where he met his mentor the late percussionist, Denver “Feluke” Smith, and earned himself a degree in Music Education and Performance.
Hector’s stage name “Roots Percussionist” is inspired by the organically produced sound deeply-rooted within all types of Indigenous music, which he honours in all performance forms. Central to his unique sound is Rastafarianism culture – the connection between past and present and the celebration of the human spiritual experience. Roots Percussionist believes in music’s ability to heal, connect and create a transcendental experience. His musical capabilities span several genres – including Latin, Reggae, African, Punk, Rock, Pop, Bouyon, Calypso and of course Dancehall – which he often fuses in his continuous explorations of music. He is also accomplished in several instruments, including; Bungos, differently pitched Congas, Tangerines, Cow Bells, Shakers, Bells, Chimes, Timpani and Xylophone.
Since 2016, Roots Percussionist has headlined global tours alongside the critically-acclaimed Chronixx & Zincfence Redemption. He has worked on percussion and background vocals on live and recorded productions for several popular artists such as Jesse Royal, Lila Ike, Beres Hammond, Jaz Elise and the Marley family. Roots Percussionist has also performed at the Essence Festival 2020, NPR Tiny Desk Series, BBC 1Xtra Series, 2020 edition of the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival as well as his hosting duties for the annual “Roots Reggae Day”. He released his first single “Outlaw” in 2019, produced by Dretegs and featuring US-based artistes QNA and Royal Khaoz. His follow-up single, “LOVE SAVIOUR”, was released in May 2020 and his next single, “Did It Again” is now available on all major streaming platforms.
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