Tarrus Riley
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Tarrus Riley, a prominent second-generation Jamaican roots reggae singer, burst onto the scene in the mid-2000s with albums such as Challenges and Parables, released through VP Records and featuring hits like “She’s Royal.”
Born in the Bronx, New York, and raised in Jamaica, he is the son of Jimmy Riley, a veteran singer and member of the Uniques and Techniques. His early career saw him self-teach various instruments and begin songwriting, with his music often exploring themes of love, social issues, and Rastafarian teachings, resonating with a wide audience. He has collaborated with various artists across genres, further showcasing his versatility. Beyond his musical career, Riley is known for his humanitarian efforts and active involvement in various social causes
Riley has been recognized with multiple awards, including the 2007 Jamaica Observer Artiste of the Year and four Reggae Academy Awards in 2008, following the success of his third album, Contagious. He continued to engage with his African roots in his music and expanded his audience through regular tours in Europe, leading to a productive phase with albums like Mecoustic (2012), To The Limit (2013), and Love Situation (2014). After a series of singles, Riley returned to the album format in 2020 with Healing, marking his first full-length release in six years.