#bawnagen

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"Rebirth" 

Fitzroy Samuels, aka Bawn Agen, held his album launch on April 19, 2015 at 12 North End Plaza, Constant Spring Road and I was impressed enough to purchase his CD on the night in question. As a seasoned rap/hip-hop fan, I had high hopes for this project based on his performances.

The stage was set.... 

As for the album itself, BA furnished tracks such as "Break it Down", "Call His Name" and couple others with his unique mix of rap and deejaying (or being a "rap-jay" dubbed by him). A lyrical flow so smooth, solid content, catchy beats, collaborations (IKon, St. Matthew, Survivor the Gifted, Lachanda Nicole, Neveah, Reason Disciple) and an undeniable energy with the sole purpose of telling his testimony ("The Story of My Life") of how Jesus saved him, while allowing both average listeners and rap enthusiasts to have a great time praising Him.

"They Don't Call My Music Gospel" 

There's something to be said about GOSPEL rap/hip-hop here in Jamaica - it has an interesting (and sometimes, harsh) audience to appeal to (because of "traditional views" ...ahem). BA shows us he's not having it, coming full force with the Word and his stories, one track at a time. "The Prayer" gives us a different point of view as it relates to how and what we should really seek God for. Retro junkies will appreciate the samples, loops, 90s vibe and the message behind "You've Changed". For the street gospel purists - there's "Walk inna di Spirit (Remix)" featuring "Street Disciple" St. Matthew where Bawn Agen displays his versatility with his Deejaying skills.

See ... Something for everyone!

When asked what his intent was concerning this project, BA said: "Well I had a point to prove and a testimony to give. Some people don't respect hip-hop as a genre that can glorify the Father and it bothered me. 1 Peter 4:11 - Jesus and the gospel are at the epicenter of my views."

The acceptance of gospel rap/hip-hop may very well be skewed. However, it's evident that Bawn Agen is here to stay. Not bad for his debut.

This album gets a 3.5 / 5

*See TekMePikCha’s photo highlights of his launch HERE and video snippet HERE

*Other sources - (Infrared Gospel Band - youtube clip HERE)

Tek Me PikCha Blogger

Chris Lawrence

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BAWN AGEN - Album Launch 2015

Constant Spring Road, specifically 12 North End Plaza, came alive on April 19 2015, for the staging of Bawn Agen's Album Launch, held on the roof of a business complex. As patrons arrived, they were welcomed with vibrant musical selections, managed by Dj Sticko . The night's event featured seventeen lyrical and electrifying performances, all introduced by Shannon Reid, the emcee for the evening.

Youth Destination Band, were the first ministers, followed by Infrared Gospel Band who were the supporting musicians and musical accompaniment for many of the performances.  Sister Lowe, Survivor; who is the brother of Bawn Agen, Confidence, Andriene Lewis, Dee Mac, J'son, Nex Change, Favour Of God and Dav as well as Shirley Mac, all ministered exceptionally. Amongst those, were some lyrical men of God who undoubtedly gave unforgettable performances, they were: Joseph Emmanuel; who engaged everyone during his set, D.A Jay with his militant sound, that always resonates well with the audience, Jim Radical; who grabbed everyone's attention while ministering and who was later accompanied by Icon to do his last song "Got To Be Focus".

J-Projek got everyone in a praise mode. St. Matthew impacted the audience with potent lyrics, as everyone including this blogger, was in full attention. Last but not least, the man of the hour, Mr. Fitzroy Samuels  aka "Bawn Agen" who was very captivating while on stage, distributing his unique Rap style, which was well received by everyone. He sang few songs from the Album which went down well with the audience. These included: Break It Down and Bawn Agen. He collaborated with some of the Artiste during their set, such as his brother Survivor and also St. Matthew. Bawn Agen closed off the launch by performing his last song with the Artiste Icon, which was called "Call Upon Christ".

Low budget production, late programme start and a fair attendance did not dampen the high energy of the launch. Also there was a strong support from other gospel artistes in attendance, such as Dunamis Reignz and Christina Roshay to  name a few.

Christian rap? Definitely not a genre that Jamaicans are use to. However if Bawn Agen's album is anything to go by, we can certainly say it is here to stay.

We give this Launch a 7!

TekMePikCha Blogger

Davio Williams