Damian Marley Drops Visual for Powerful Track "R.O.A.R."

Image credit: Ghetto Youths International

Jr. Gong is back with his first official (solo) album in 12 years. Following the 2005 classic Welcome To Jamrock, Damian Marley preps for the release of his fourth studio release Stony Hill (named after Marley’s old stomping grounds, situated north of Kingston). First off, the Jamaican artist delivers a new track and visual from the project titled “R.O.A.R.”

In the song’s clip, Jr. Gong looks out from a warehouse at the goings on taking place on the street below him…viewers also see a woman dancing in white dust, a boxer at work and other scenes matching Marley’s words beautifully. The message of the song is powerful (as always), which Marley breaks down to The FADER:

“R.O.A.R.” is really speaking about how, in Jamaica, what we call rudeboys always had a responsibility to the community. They would be the safekeepers — the people who keep the community safe from other areas or within itself. That’s kind of changed over the years, especially with younger kids growing up without elders. This song is about reminding them of those values.

Enjoy R.O.A.R. below…Stony Hill drops 21st July (Marley’s 39th birthday); forthcoming European tour dates can be found on Marley’s official website. Previously, he worked with Nas on 2010’s Distant Relatives and formed the mega-group SuperHeavy alongside Joss Stone, Mick Jagger, Dave Stewart and A. R. Rahman the following year.

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Posted By

Jon Powell

Currently working as Senior Editor of RESPECT. Magazine, I (Jon Powell) have 10 years experience in digital and print media -- this includes writing, photography and video editing production. I have worked extensively in Washington, D.C. and London, England and specialise in urban music and culture.