Papa Michigan, a name synonymous with reggae history, has once again reminded the world of his musical prowess with the release of his latest video, ‘Survivor’. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Kingston, Jamaica, this project encapsulates the core values of strength, perseverance, and cultural pride, all while paying homage to the city’s rich musical heritage.
Michigan shared that ‘Survivor’ is not just another song, but a true celebration of resilience and strength—themes deeply embedded in both his personal journey and reggae’s history. Behind the success of this video lies the unwavering support of some of Jamaica’s best musical minds, who infused the project with a sense of authenticity and passion that is unmistakably Kingston.
The video was created at Kingston’s legendary Anchor Recording Studio, a place known for producing timeless reggae tracks that have defined the genre. The energy inside Anchor, Papa Michigan revealed, set the perfect tone for the video’s powerful message.
One of the key contributors to this project was none other than the iconic Flabba Holt. A reggae legend in his own right, Holt brought his signature deep basslines and irreplaceable energy to the studio, adding layers of warmth and authenticity that are deeply connected to Kingston’s roots. His contributions were invaluable, serving as both a creative force and a grounding influence.
The creative process also benefited from the sharp ear of Fatta, an engineer known for his stellar work on countless Jamaican hits. His expertise behind the mixing board ensured that every sound was precisely tuned to match the mood and message of the song, enhancing the powerful message of survival that the video conveys.
The journey didn’t stop there. Papa Michigan also had the privilege of recording parts of the video at Studio 1, the birthplace of countless reggae classics, and Sound Wave Studio, both hotbeds of creativity that have helped shape Kingston’s legendary music scene.
‘Survivor’, the song, is the title track of Papa Michigan’s latest album, released on August 30, 2024. The album, a 12-track collection written and produced entirely by Michigan, is a powerful follow-up to his successful 2022 album ‘Whole Lotta Loving’. It also arrives on the heels of his June 2024 single ‘My Father My Hero’, continuing his string of releases that have kept his fanbase engaged and energized.
‘Survivor’ is a testament to Papa Michigan’s enduring relevance in the reggae world. The album’s unique sound is a collaborative effort, with six tracks co-produced alongside some of the industry’s most talented names. Rub a Dub Market brings dynamic energy to tracks like “Dancehall Tonight” and the lively “Light up the Spliff.” Meanwhile, House of Riddim adds their soulful touch to the emotional “Dance Away the Pain.”
Michigan also teamed up with Issac Maya and Kleu for a modern remix of “Nice up the Dance,” revisiting his classic 1979 hit with Smiley, which is sure to resonate with both old-school fans and a new generation of listeners. And to keep the good vibes going, Lloyd Mullins co-produced the feel-good anthem “Good Vibes,” featuring reggae legend Dean Fraser. The album wraps up with motivational tracks like “Make Money,” co-produced by Blacker Dread, blending Afrobeat influences with reggae’s enduring spirit.
Papa Michigan’s latest release continues the momentum he’s been building over the last few years. His recent artistic ventures, including his acting debut in the 2023 musical-comedy De Obeah Mon and the energetic 2022 single ‘Mek We Bounce’, showcase his versatility and passion for both music and storytelling.
The ‘Survivor’ video, now available on social media platforms, brings the message of resilience to life in a visually stunning way, and fans can experience the full album on major streaming services and in select music stores worldwide.