While it is vibrant, Staten Island’s reggae community is not as pronounced as New York City sister boroughs of Bronx, Brooklyn or Queens. But producer Michael Eaton, a Jamaican who has lived in Staten Island for many years, flies the roots-reggae banner with pride.
‘Fools Rush In’ by singer Patrick Junior from St. Vincent And the Grenadines is the latest release from his Eaton Music company. Eaton, a committed Rastafarian, says the single is a sign of things to come in 2026.
“We want to put out music that everyone can relate to because there is a big market out there that wants quality and that’s what we plan to give them, ” said Eaton.
From St. Ann parish in north-eastern Jamaica, Eaton has been involved in music since migrating to the United States over 40 years ago. Disillusioned, he gave the industry break before making a comeback three years ago with songs by Sydney Salmon, a Jamaican based in Ethiopia. And African American singer-songwriter Emil Troy.
Eaton also has songs by Salmon in the 2026 pipeline and is constantly seeking other likeminded acts to boost his company’s catalog.
“What I look for is good, honest lyrics which I can back up with my production. Di key thing is to do di artist justice,” he said.
