From Japan to Jamrock: Shinehead Wows Generations of Fans

Los Angeles, CA -- November 2024 -- When the "Jamaican in New York" touched down in Japan this month for a 7-city tour, it was like he never left. The music pioneer Shinehead was welcomed with an outpouring of love from generations of fans, complete with notable displays of appreciation for his artistry, catalogue and lots of fond memories. Even before the crowds were singing the global sensation's hit songs and cult classics verbatim, they were greeting him with customized gifts, including nostalgic photos, classic flyers from past tours, memorabilia, posters, record paraphanalia and a drawing of he and partner in life and Kingston 12 Hi-Fi sound, DJ Papalotl. As one might say, Japanese fans showed up and showed out for Shinehead's sold-out "Back to 80's & 90's Dancehall Japan Tour," which featured stops in Osaka, Fukuoka, Yokohama, Nagoya, Okinawa, Ibaraki and Tokyo. Produced by Desem of Yard Beat Sound, the highly anticipated tour dates were just as much music, as they were nostalgia.

The tour afforded music lovers double the excitement and entertainment with featured performances from both Shinehead and the powerhouse Kingston 12 Hi-Fi soundsystem with DJ Papalotl at the helm. The fiery selectress celebrated her Birthday in Japan with a fun-filled event, amidst celebrating her 30th Anniversary in the business all year long! Whether the creative mastermind was immersed in the crowd belting out his motivational hit "Strive," declaring his status as a "Jamaican in New York," professing that he has the "Golden Touch" or confirming that he is "Rough & Rugged" and "Know How Fi Chat," Shinehead proved once again he is a force for multi-generational audiences. His indelible mark on both Caribbean and mainstream music is voluminous. Each show had its unique attributes with rivaling turn out and vibes. However, some stand out moments of the tour markedly include Shinehead's high energy sharing of the stage with legendary Japanese Dancehall act Ackee and Saltfish and internationally renowned selector Ricky Trooper during the Yokahama show "Legends in Action" -- which also featured the Bayside sound clash (Yard Beat vs Sound Trooper).

Even after being back stateside for just over a week, there is still a flurry of social media posts, media love and stories from promoters, DJ’s, fans, and sound systems. Reggae's impact on Japan and Shinehead's contributions to the genre's global presence are interrelated and undeniable. "While the "Far East" is thousands of miles away, the spirit of Reggae music will forever unite the masses," says Shinehead. "It confirms we have more in common with our Japanese bredren and sistren than people may realize." From Japan to Jamrock! Shinehead and his Kingston 12 Hi-Fi sound with DJ Papalotl, will return to the Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise for their 9th Annual residency aboard the mega-entertainment ship in December. There, Shinehead and Kingston 12 Hi-Fi are heralded for captivating performances, which often rock until the sun comes up. Adding to an already great year is Shinehead's celebration of multiple landmark music anniversaries. Much to his credit, Shinehead is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of his debut record "Billie Jean," 30th Anniversary of the classic album "Troddin" and 25th Anniversary of last full-length album "Praises. Visit: www.kingston12hifi.com Follow Shinehead and Kingston12 Hi Fi: https://instagram.com/original_shinehead https://instagram.com/kingston12hifi Stream Shinehead Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0AcEt9ujUBWQ50cZsaskWo?si=QEzPGhqSRLOW6HYXJX844w Watch Welcome to Jamrock Cruise Performance: https://youtu.be/XS11Nnmxp5I?si=vb_chfOi6-ENnMFQ