Gramps Morgan
In 1992, Denroy Morgan introduced some of his children to the media at a press conference in ....Jamaica..... He told those in attendance that the name of the group is Morgan Heritage. Later that evening, the group took the stage at Reggae Sumfest, and impressed everyone. MCA records immediately signed the group, and in 1994, their first album was released called “Miracles.”
There is no disputing the rock Morgan Heritage has become to Reggae’s musical landscape. When news emerged that the group was pursuing solo projects, many speculated that they were breaking up. Far from it! They have been more supportive to each other, and have given fans an inner look at each of them as individuals.
We sat down with one member; Gramps Morgan! He’s calm, he’s curious (his eyes read you like a book), and he’s inspirational!
Presenting Gramps Morgan…
L3: Being a part of the group Morgan Heritage has allowed you to explore the world through music. Now that you’ve embarked on a solo career, how have the fans embraced your project?
GM: Well a lot of people have said “wow, we knew you could do it!” Everyone has been very supportive, and very encouraging with this project.
L3: Your lead single, entitled “Wash The Tears” is very uplifting, and shows how much you care about your fans. What inspired you to write that song?
GM: It was inspired because of the times we’re living in. A lot of people are going through serious things. They’re loosing their homes, their cars, their families, so many things. I just wanted to give the people something to hold on to, and give them support to let them know that they are not alone, and Jah will see them through these tough times.
L3: Expanding on your musical horizons, you attended the BET awards this year, which garnered a lot of interest in you, especially your business acumen. Will we see additional collaborations soon, such as your collab with India Arie?
GM: Yes definitely! You’ll see a lot of movement on my part! We want to show the world all the things we are capable of doing, and the people we’re capable of connecting through music. We really want the Morgan Heritage fans that there is a lot to us as a group, and individually.
L3: In terms of the business side, will we see you produce music for Grammy award winning artists, as well as mainstream BET type artists?
GM: I hope so! We’re looking to do as much as possible. We want to take things to the next level, so we’ll see!
L3: Your long time bredrin, Rico from Natural Vibes Sound System launched Da Flava Radio which sees you select music! Tell us how that came about!
GM: Da Flava Radio came about because of Rico, and he approached me and asked if I’d like to be a part of the station by doing a show. My first reaction was “yuh serious?!” and he said yes! When I look at where things are going with the internet, it only made sense. I told Buju Banton about it, and Buju was 100% on board. So now we are artists and selectors!
L3: How do you feel about selecting music? Are you nervous knowing that so many people are listening?
GM: I’m not nervous! I just do the show based on spirit, and not by thinking. I just want my show to have a natural flow to it! I like groups like Black Uhuru and Steel Pulse and groups like those, so I’ll build my selections around the vibes that come from that music.
L3: What advice would you give our readers and viewers on Life. Love. Lyrics?
GM: Work hard and reach for your dream. Whatever you do, do it with all your heart!
For more on Gramps Morgan, visit: www.grampsmorgan.com
