Smalltown Boy

Kingston Sound System

ft Jimmy Somerville of Bronski Beat

Digital Single

OUT NOW

https://ffm.to/smalltown-boy

Get ready to hear ‘Smalltown Boy’ like never before! ‘Smalltown Boy’ is the latest gem from the upcoming album Classic Hits In A Reggae Groove, a bold project that pairs original vocalists with Kingston Sound System, a collection of Jamaica’s finest musicians to reimagine massive hits in true reggae style.

Kingston Sound System has taken the iconic 1984 anthem, torn it down to its roots, and rebuilt it using Jimmy Somerville’s iconic original vocals. This original vocal is then combined with the fire of a live Jamaican band, layering in dub-drenched horns, a bassline that thunders like a Caribbean storm and a spirit of defiance that hits harder than ever. This isn’t a remix—it’s a reggae resurrection blessed by the legendary Jimmy Somerville himself.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/mkc0VYfHQWw

Every track featured on Classic Hits In A Reggae Groove has been recorded with the involvement and the blessing of the featured artists. No AI, no recording tricks, this is the real deal. Recorded in Jamaica, the album boasts a band of reggae royalty—veterans who’ve played with Ziggy Marley, Peter Tosh, Sly & Robbie, and Wyclef Jean. The album delivers hits infused with a reggae twist that feel timeless, vibrant and beautifully grounded in tradition.

Originally a global smash by Bronski Beat, ‘Smalltown Boy’ remains a timeless cry of rebellion and redemption—an anthem for the LGBTQ community and beyond. Ranked No. 45 on RollingStone’s “100 Best Protest Songs of All Time,” it’s the story of a small-town kid breaking free and finding his tribe. Now, 40 years later, with its message as universal as ever, Kingston Sound System infuses it with a sun-soaked reggae vibe that transforms the dancefloor classic into something entirely new yet undeniably authentic.

A Star-Studded Lineup Awaits

Smalltown Boy is the third release from Classic Hits In A Reggae Groove. Steve Winwood’s ‘Higher Love,’ was followed by the release of Blondie’s ‘Heart of Glass,’ to a rapturous response earlier this year.

The album promises fresh takes on classics like B-52s’ ‘Love Shack,’ Pretenders’ ‘Don’t Get Me Wrong,’ Sophie B. Hawkins’ ‘As I Lay Me Down,’ Tanita Tikaram’s ‘Twist In My Sobriety,’ and Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Time After Time’ featuring Gary ‘Nesta’ Pine—plus more surprises to come. Each track delivers a reggae twist that’s innovative and irresistible.

About Kingston Sound System

Kingston Sound System is a musical collective that thrives on rhythm, energy, and innovation. Known for fusing reggae with diverse genres, they honour the genre’s rich legacy while pushing boundaries to create something fresh and unforgettable.

Recorded in the vibrant music metropolis of Kingston, Jamaica, the project boasts an impressive selection of reggae musicians who have played for the likes of Burning Spear, Ziggy Marley, Sly & Robbie and Peter Tosh - Ian “Beezy” Coleman (Ziggy and Damian Marley, Wyclef, Fugees), Devon Bradshaw (Burning Spear) and Guillaume “Stepper Sax” Briard (Sly & Robbie).