Following her year-long promotion of the ‘Star Girl Mixtape’ in collaboration with Walshy Fire and Major Lazer; Singer/songwriter Naomi Cowan is back with another track that speaks to the
current climate of society. Aptly titled Kingston Traffic, the track, arranged by veteran producer Cleveland ‘Cleve’ Browne, and produced by her father Tommy—addresses the myriad of challenges that are ‘congesting’ the human race in the plight for a better life.
“The song is a metaphor for the reality of what we’re facing not only in Kingston but across the globe. So much war, unrest, distrust amongst people; it’s almost as though everyone is grasping
for straws trying to hold on to whatever they can…and understandably so. The last three years have not been easy, normal or fathomable for me. I still can’t believe that for two years I have
not been able to do what I love freely—perform my music,” Naomi explained.
As of June 24, the single is available on all major platforms. According to the singer, who also played a part in the song’s production, she drew from everyday observation to curate the song.
“An artiste’s duty is to reflect the times. I’ve been feeling and observing so much noise, so much congestion all around the place. Everyone’s trying to ‘make it’ and willing to run over the next
person to get there,” said the Jamaican entertainer. “Kingston is the kind of place that teaches you from a very young age how to navigate the outside world with a strong sense of awareness, tact and wisdom,” she added.
Naomi is known for other hits such as the VP Records release “Paradise Plum,” as well as Peace of Mind, Climbing and Energy. Kingston Traffic however holds a sentimental value, because of her parent’s contribution to the production of the song. “People have always asked me if I’ve ever done a song with my mom and dad. We recently did a refreshed version of ‘Santa Claus Do You Ever Come to the Ghetto,’ but this is really a new project that we started working on in 2020. So, I consider this to be our first real collab,” Naomi proudly said.
Meanwhile her father Tommy, who has had decades of experience in the music industry, hopes the song will promote optimism in all listeners and encourage them to exercise patience and
compassion with each other. “Kingston Traffic is really a confusing situation. The main point is that our lives can be better than traffic without confusion. It’s a song of purpose; in spite of your background or present situation.It speaks of the value of discipline, ‘start out early’. Don’t get trapped into the fake situation,” he said.
He further said the societal congestion is potent, however, some turn a blind eye to it. “There’s a lot of congestion around us, if you pay attention. There’s a lot of noise. Everyone’s
hustling; posting constantly on social media.”
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