ROB SYMEONN
Rob Symeonn is committed to helping return reggae to its roots. Reflecting his strong moral beliefs, Symeonn’s lyrics bring a positive and conscious message to his listeners. His first single on Easy Star Records, “Anything for Jah,” released in 1997, was a rockers anthem, expressing Rasta devotion to Jah and a universally relevant spiritual message. Singing in a roots style—evocative of the original sounds of artists such as Bob Marley, Hugh Mundell, and Fred Locks—Symeonn, like those who came before him, understands that a universal message and a catchy song will best spread Jah’s words of love.
Symeonn made his debut as a singer for the One Love International Sound System. From there, he steadily built a following among Caribbean reggae fans in New York. It was while he was honing his skills at Freedom International and Macca Bee Sound Systems that he first met and worked with fellow Easy Star recording artist Ruff Scott in 1986; Rob and Ruff have collaborated countless times since then.
Symeonn’s second single with Easy Star was “Delilah,” featuring toasting by Ranking Joe. That song, along with “Anything for Jah,” appears on Easy Star Volume One. He later voiced “Keep On Trying” on the “Thai Stick” riddim (this can be found on the full length CD Easy Star Volume Two: Dancehall Culture). Rob also appears extensively on Ticklah’s Hi-Fidelity Dub Sessions: Roots Combination album, as well as on Ticklah’s release, Ticklah Vs. Axelrod.