Kappo
Kappo is a singer, song writer and entertainer born March 22nd 1974 in the parish of Clarendon on the beautiful island of Jamaica. He grew up in the ever cool hills of Mocho in the small community of Stewarton.
Music has always been his passion! His mother, Eudalee Smith, said from the tender age of 3 years old, Kappo was always singing and dancing. Even as a toddler before he could speak properly he would often be playing a beat and dancing to whatever he could find to turn into an instrument and make music. Like most singers, Kappo started singing at church and in schools. When he was 9 years old his father, Altyman Hanson, gave him an old turntable that he later converted into a little sound system. On most weekends Kappo would entertain his friends and family playing records at his father’s grocery shop.
As he got older, Kappo decided to take his music to a more professional level. He ventured out to the north coast of Jamaica where he started singing in various tourist hotels around Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Negril. Word of his talent spread quickly, and he was soon invited to join a Florida based band called Psyche. One of his most memorable moments with the group was in 2009 when they performed as the opening act for Fort Lauderdale’s annual Jerk Festival. Another note worthy moment was the feature they got on Florida’s ABC TV. Psyche received a lot of exposure and was promoted as one of the best emerging reggae bands from Jamaica.
In 2010, Kappo was given the opportunity to sign with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. He took advantage of it and immediately became the lead singer of the Temperature Band on the cruise. This band consistently got everyone moving and grooving to the smooth sounds of R&B, POP and Reggae while touring Europe, North America and the Caribbean.
Kappo currently resides in Boston, Massachusetts. He travels frequently to Jamaica to perform and record his original music. When asked what is your most memorable performance to date? Kappo recalls performing at the Golden Eye Hotel in St Mary, for Harry Styles and the One Direction Band. The popular English based band came to Jamaica for a private party to celebrate young Harry’s 21st birthday in February of 2014.
Kappo recently released two original songs: “Party Time” and “Sensimillia.” Additionally he has two reggae covers that he is promoting: Sam Smith’s “I’m not the only one” and Phil Collins’ “One more night.” The singer is presently looking forward to releasing his debut album. Each original song showcases the versatility of the artist and his diversity as he covers Ska, lover’s rock, Dub, Roots and Dancehall. Kappo’s musical influences and mentors include Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Beres Hammond, Morgan Heritage, Jimmy Cliff and Shaggy.
As an artist Kappo is still looking forward to greater achievements. He strives to continue making music and contribute to the genre he loves most, authentic roots reggae.
Released on April 20th, “Marijuana Dub” by Chezidek features Addis Pablo (Suns Of Dub), drums by Wim “Radics” Verbruggen from the “Asham Band” and it was mixed and mastered by Marc Leys. Production credits goes to JamrockVybz Records & MacLes Music Factory, with artwork by JamrockVybz’s graphic artist, Kai Lippok. “Marijuana Dub” is distributed by Distributed VP/VPAL.
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