Originally from Jamaica and currently residing in Florida, Shuntai’s reggae takes noticeable influence from the masters, namely Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer. Using his music to deliver “a message of peace, love, [and] unity,” Shuntai soothes the spirit with his latest track, “Don’t Let Dem Quench Your Fire.” Does it promote good feelings and truly uplift the listener? I think so, and here’s why:
According to Shuntai, he created this song “to motivate and elevate the minds of our generation and those coming up behind us.” And it truly does with lyrics like this:
“Light up your fire, your fire will take you higher
And don’t be afraid to blaze your own trails
Be true to yourself and know your source and strength
ADVER-SIT-EEE, they say children is our best University.”
Musically, “Don’t Let Dem Quench Your Fire” is four repeating chords underneath Shuntai’s familiar chant-singing; he’s regularly joined by backing vocalists who either echo or respond to Shuntai’s lyrics (and most of that echoing occurs in the chorus):
“Don’t yu let dem don’t yu let dem
Don’t yu let dem quench yu fire
Don’t let them touch your heart’s desire
Let your purpose for life set your heart on fire.”
Starting with flawless rolls on snare and toms, “Don’t Let Dem Quench Your Fire” hits that familiar reggae beat and doesn’t let up. Shuntai’s character-filled voice, tweaked with moderate delay, speaks truth, and the backup singers punctuate his message with their gorgeously sung support.
But is it good?
If you like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer, or you’re just looking for something mellow, consistent, and positively packed with good vibes, I implore you to check out Shuntai. And if you live in Florida, make sure you take the opportunity to catch him live. You’re in for a treat.
BELOW: Listen to Don’t Let Dem Quench Your Fire and check out Shuntai on Spotify, Amazon Music, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (“X”). Please support Shuntai by visiting his website and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music.
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