Tippa Irie is set to release his first studio album in six years as the celebrated artist returns to the spotlight with a bang.
Grammy Award-nominated artist Tippa has been making music for a whopping 40 years, and is likely best-known for working on Black Eyed Peas’ massive hit Hey Mama.
The UK dancehall legend is releasing the new album off the back of a European Summer tour which included slots at Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Fest and the Rototom in Spain, with the new record massively anticipated by fans.
I’m An African will be released on 15 September, marking his 18th studio album, and draws inspiration from his family’s roots in Africa and Jamaica,.
The London-born MC is set to reflect on the historical significance of his personal past while reflecting on current-day events, and switches between socio-political conversation and pure, joyous music.
Speaking about the new album, London-born Tippa said: ‘Understanding where we come from and how that influences our life decisions is just as important as being able to sit back, relax and just have some fun.
‘These last three years have been a challenge for everyone, and I wanted to create something to help people forget about their troubles without ignoring what’s actually happening in the world.’
Title track I’m An African pays tribute to leaders around the world who paved the way for people of colour, including Malcolm X and Bob Marley, with a music video set to be released on 15 September.
The album comes months ahead of the release of Tippa’s autobiography It’s Good To Have The Feeling You’re The Best.
Named after his 1980 hit single off the same name, the book explores Tippa’s life and career. It will be released in early 2023.
The musician released first album Is It Really Happening To me in 1986, and has clinched multiple UK number one hits with the likes of Hello Darling, Raggamuffin Girl, and Superwoman.
He was nominated for a Grammy for best rap song at the 2005 Grammy awards thanks to his work on Hey Mama.
