For producer Sean Lewis Folkes, whose musical foundation was shaped during the 1980s, honoring reggae’s pioneers is second nature. At the same time, he understands that staying relevant is essential to creating music that resonates with today’s audience. That philosophy is reflected in his latest production, “When You Love Me,” the new single by reggae icon Marcia Griffiths. Released on June 5 through his South Florida-based LF Records, the song reunites Lewis Folkes with one of reggae’s most celebrated and enduring voices.
Although he had previously produced recordings for Griffiths, those songs were never officially released, making “When You Love Me” their first commercial collaboration. Griffiths, who will celebrate her 77th birthday in November, brought the same professionalism and artistry that have defined her remarkable career spanning more than six decades. “She’s prepared yet intuitive, refining melodies to serve the message,” Lewis Folkes said. “Her calm focus in the studio ensures authenticity, grounding each project in cultural integrity and artistic purpose.”
On the recording, Griffiths is backed by the popular Code Red Band, one of South Florida’s premier backing bands.
Rather than attempting to modernize Griffiths‘ sound by following current musical trends, Lewis Folkes chose an approach that balances tradition with contemporary appeal. “With Marcia Griffiths, it is never classic versus current. You serve both,” he explained. “You preserve the classic by respecting the ingredients. You make it current by cooking for today’s ears. You are not chasing trends; you are translating feelings.”
Born in rural Jamaica, Lewis Folkes migrated to the United States as a teenager and later served in the U.S. military. Over the years, he has built an impressive production résumé, working with established reggae artists including Luciano, Ed Robinson, Screwdriver, and Pressure Busspipe, while also collaborating with emerging talent in Jamaica and South Florida.
When Lewis Folkes entered the music industry in the 1990s, Griffiths was already enjoying another successful chapter in her storied career. Alongside artists such as Beres Hammond, Buju Banton, Wayne Wonder, and Cutty Ranks, she helped establish Penthouse Records as one of the most influential reggae labels of the decade with hits including “I Shall Sing,” “Land of Love,” and “Live On.”
Griffiths‘ career began in the mid-1960s at Studio One, where she was mentored by legendary producer Clement ‘Coxsone’ Dodd and singer-songwriter Bob Andy. During her time there, she recorded enduring classics such as “Feel Like Jumping,” “Mark My Word,” and “Really Together,” a duet with Bob Andy.
In the 1970s, Griffiths toured the world as a member of I Threes, providing harmonies for Bob Marley. Throughout that decade, she also recorded timeless songs including “Dreamland” and “Stepping Out of Babylon” for producer Sonia Pottinger. Her biggest commercial success came in 1982 with “Electric Boogie,” written by Bunny Wailer, a global hit that remains one of reggae’s most recognizable songs.
MARIA JACKSON 27 MAGAZINE 