Roots reggae artist Jemma Roots has made an inspiring entrance into the music scene with her debut single, ‘Love Myself,’ featuring Junior Geenius. Released on February 6, 2025, across all major digital platforms, the song embodies self-empowerment and unity—core values of reggae music.
Jemma’s journey with reggae music began in 1985 when she arrived in Toronto, Canada, from Guyana. As she adjusted to her new environment, she discovered Much Music, a television station that introduced her to the legendary Robert Nesta Marley and The Wailers. From the moment she heard ‘Buffalo Soldier,’ she felt an unshakable connection to Marley’s music. The lyrics resonated deeply with her experience of being uprooted from her grandparents in Guyana and suddenly finding herself in a foreign land.
Facing the challenges of racism and a sense of displacement, reggae music became her refuge. Songs like ‘One Love’ gave her hope and comfort, reinforcing the belief that better days were ahead. Growing up in Toronto’s Kipling North Albion area during the 80s, Jemma also drew inspiration from artists like Guyanese superstar Eddy Grant, J.C. Lodge, Barbara Jones, and Judy Boucher.
As reggae evolved in the 90s and early 2000s, she found herself further immersed in the sounds of Little Lenny, Dennis Brown, Marcia Griffiths, Super Cat, Josey Wales, Dawn Penn, Sister Nancy, Lady G, Lady Saw, Patra, Queen Ifrica, Tony Rebel, Sanchez, Warrior King, and Luciano. These artists played a significant role in shaping her musical identity and passion for reggae.
Jemma credits two influential figures, Donna Makeda of ReggaeXclusive Magazine and Carrie Mullings of Rebel Vibez, for inspiring her to pursue her dream of creating roots reggae music. Their encouragement helped fuel her determination to contribute to the genre she loves. “Whether you are African, Chinese, European, or Indian, I love how reggae music brings us together,” Jemma says. “I am full of love and very creative, and I plan to keep the legacy of roots reggae going forward with positivity for the world.”
With the release of ‘Love Myself,’ Jemma Roots delivers a message of self-love and empowerment, ensuring that the spirit of reggae continues to unite and uplift people worldwide. Her music serves as a reminder that reggae is more than just a genre—it is a movement of love, unity, and resilience.
