Gyptian ... to be touring so much and getting so many performance requests is something overwhelming. - Photos by Roxroy McLean

Reggae artiste Gyptian was his usual down-to-earth self when he spoke recently with The Gleaner, promoting his latest singles.

The conscious-thinking reggae singer, born Windel Edwards on October 25, 1983, hopes to revive his name in fans' consciousness after completing a lengthy European and African tour. And with the release of Life Hard, Jah Jah World and Hold You, which have been getting reasonable airplay, the 27-year-old believes it's the start of a new stage in his career.

"There's a lot of difference in me now. First, there is maturity and the music I produce is positive music," said the singer, who hails from Portmore, St Catherine.

Major hits

In 2005 he scored two major hits in Is There A Place on the Seasons Rhythm and Serious Times, the latter especially earning him immediate public attention. Gyptian has since then carried out his musical works in the same vein and made an even greater impression on his listeners with Mama Don't Cry and Beautiful Lady.

"I have been around and know that music is the strongest thing around. How I know that music is powerful? Look where it has brought me. Music did all of this, it brought everything," he said.

For the past three years, Gyptian has toured places such as Africa, England, France and several Caribbean islands. He also released his first album, My Name Is Gyptian, in September 2006 on VP Records. In October 2008 he released his second full-length set I Can Feel Your Pain.

Early in his career, though, Gyptian had signalled his potential with the release of his lovers rock track, You Never Know. "I always knew music was my thing," said the singer, who'll be releasing his third album (not yet named) within the next two months.

Overwhelmed

Gyptian

Gyptian, who was nominated for Best New Entertainer at the 2006 International Reggae and World Music Awards, said he was humbled when he reflected on his career. "Honestly, to be touring so much and getting so many performance requests is something overwhelming. It don't seems real at times," he told The Gleaner.

"When I'm here, it's like I'm on vacation because of the reception I get overseas. The road nice yes, but it's totally different here in Jamaica. Sometimes you wonder if it's here the music make," he added.