Though he is from one one of Jamaica’s toughest enclaves, 12-year-old roots-reggae singer SingJahLion says breaking the stereotype associated with Spanish Town is one of his objectives. And he is doing that with music.

The uplifting Book, Book, Book and A Better Tomorrow are two of his latest songs. They encourage empowerment among the youth at a time when many of SingJahLion’s peers are considered lost by Jamaica’s older generation.

SingJahLion

“I learn from early from my father about education an’ what it can do for you in life. That’s why I do the song Book, Book, Book,” he said.

SingJahLion, whose real name is Lionel Henry, has been recording music since he was four years-old. Most of his songs are produced by his father, Gregory Henry, an artist known as Raspeck.

The early exposure to music through going to recording studios and performing at community events has helped determine SingJahLion’s career path.

“It’s not what I want to be, is what I am an’ that is a singer,” he said.

SingJahLion is in his first year at Jose Marti Technical High School, located in Spanish Town, Jamaica’s first capital. It is also one of the country’s toughest areas with a consistently high homicide rate.

Through his songs and working with public and private sector groups, SingJahLion believes he and like minded youth can help transform his hometown and Jamaica.

“All it takes is love,” he said.

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