This October, Belly Up (San Diego) will welcome international reggae sensation Stephen Marley. Born April 20th 1972 in Delaware to Rita and reggae superstar Bob Marley. Stephen played for years with his older brother Ziggy’s band the ‘Melody Makers’ before blazing his own trail. I would consider Stephen the “Dr. Dre” of the Marley brothers in that he produces a lot of his brother’s work. On top of Stephen’s Grammy wins with the Melody Makers he has been credited with Grammys for Damian’s albums Half-Way Tree and Welcome to Jamrock. He has found Grammy success in his own music winning Grammys for both his ‘Mind Control’ album and his ‘Root of Life’ album. Stephen’s blend of roots reggae, blues, and soul with a twist of Marley defines his sound. Stephen gives great performances of his father’s music taking the listener back in time. This is not a show you want to miss!
Stephen Marley’s band is composed of some amazing musicians. So Cal Reggae will be featuring Stephen’s drummer, Squidly Cole in an interview at the Belly Up. We also hope to catch up with Erica Newell, (Stephen’s back up singer) who is working on some projects of her own. Squidly is son of Ska legend Stranger Cole and is nick-named the singing drummer, also working on his own projects. His ‘Babylon Days’ album kicked off his singing career. He has even backed up SOJA on stage. Squidly Cole’s amazing reggae drumming skills can be seen at the Belly Up in October!
-Tom Searcy
Nice article! I’m looking forward to this show. I actually received a ticket from the San Diego Reader, big ups to them.
I’m very excited and stoked for this show. Looking forward to hearing the interview with Squidly Cole.