Teen Reggae Singer Javaughn Electrifies CMJ Crowd

Posted on Oct 22nd 2009 2:15PM by DJ Lanphier
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At Wednesday night's CMJ show at New York's Brooklyn Bowl, 16-year-old Jamaican musical prodigy Javaughn prowled the stage like a big cat unleashed from a cage as he gripped the microphone and shouted, "This is a song about having a good attitude!" He then glided into 'Peer Pressure' with the ease of a veteran twice his years. Backed by Julian Marley's Uprising Band, Javaughn appears determined to continue the legacy of strong musicianship, steady reggae beats and powerful message laden lyrics begun before he was born by the legendary Bob Marley.

Known as "Javaughn Genius" in his native Jamaica for his multi-instrumental skills and young age, the then 14 year-old Javaughn was brought into the Marley family fold and before long, Damian Marley was producing his debut album 'Superstar' and Julian was taking him on tour as an opening act. To put it lightly, the results are impressive. Like the Marley's, Javaughn's musical career is a family affair, as nine of 10 songs on the album, including the title track, were written by his father.

Although still a relative unknown in the United States, Javaughn's command as a performer, and with it his command of the messages contained within the songs, are both still developing. While singing 'Rich Quick Mentality,' a song that offers a powerful insight to those who would disregard the higher ground for a quick buck, his passion was palpable, if a bit overshadowed by his youthful naiveté.

While Javaughn has no lack of confidence and exudes an amazing electric energy, he still lacks the deep charismatic connection with the audience that his well known mentors exhibit. It will surely come with age, wisdom and experience. Javaughn has the support of one of the great reggae bands in the world, not to mention the Marley family, so it's only a matter of time before this very young and talented artist finds a path that is clearly his own and shines under the power of his own light.