Rob Symeon "Abso Rootly Hot"

Photo taken from Easy Star Records Webpage.

Rob Symeon

Rob Symeonn, a rising star in the reggae world, is committed to music to its roots. Symeonn delivers conscious lyrics and sweet melodies with his distinct, inimitable vocal style and bubbling scats. His vocal sound is sometimes reminiscent of crucial roots singers Barry Brown, Jacob Miller and Hugh Mundell. Symeonn has lived in Brooklyn, New York, since 1978, and at an early age appreciated the total power of music. His influences range from Motown to Trenchtown, Marvin to Marley, and everything in between. This exposure to diverse musical styles is the foundation which Symeonn has used to cultivate his talent and develop his sound. He made his debut as a singer for the One Love International sound system. He continued to sharpen his skills as a singer at Freedom International and Macca Bee sound systems, steadily building a following among Caribbean reggae fans in New York. As a Rastaman, Symeonn's character and livity are reflected in his music. His lyrics are conscious and upful. Biblical. Rootical. Heartical. Symeonn remains positive while maintaining a non-compromising stance when addressing crucial issues in his songs, yet he is smooth and easy when he sings conscious lover's rock. His first recordings appear on "Easy Star Volume 1". The singles "Delilah", which features the legendary Rankin Joe, and the anthematic "Anything For Jah", introduced him to reggae fans internationally. In concert, Symeonn performs his own sweet blend of roots and culture with the same energy and enthusiasm as any current dancehall artist. He performs regularly in New York (S.O.B.'s, Lion's Den) and the east coast. He is proud to have performed with Tiger, Yellowman, Sister Carol and Tony Rebel, Rankin Joe and most recently, Everton Blender. In 1998, Symeonn joined Easy Star Records to promote and perform in Hawaii. It was this tour that Symeonn first met and worked with The Heartical Crew, the islands premier roots reggae band and backing service. Reggae fans in Hawaii couldn't get enough of Rob Symeonn and a return visit was arranged even before he left the islands. He returned in the summer of '99. During this more extensive stay, Symeonn performed regularly with THC. They performed at the first annual Kauai Splash, the islands biggest outdoor concert, which also featured reggae greats Michael Rose and Don Carlos. Another memorable performance was with the Wailing Souls, in June of 2000. During this time, Symeonn released "Going back to Africa", a single featured on "Roots Music, volume 2", on Quiet Storm Records, a label from Hawaii whose presence is making waves in the music industry and on the billboard charts. He is also breaking new ground with the release of his new 7" single, "Keep On Trying", on an original Easy Star riddim called "Thai Stick"(also featuring versions by Luciano, Anthony B, Triston Palma and The Meditations). The response to his new single has been positive and it is being played on radio stations and at dances around the world. Symeonn has recorded new music at Selah Studio, and with THC have produced his first, full-length debut CD, entitled "Abso-Root-ly Hot", which is receiveing positive reviews and airplay worldwide. He will be touring the islands to promote and is working on touring throughout the year. Rob continues to record and write music in New York as well as performing. He will make an appearance in the upcoming Bob Marley video, "I Know a Place". Rob Symeonn, the Spark Igniter, a shining star in the reggae world, is burning hot. 'Abso-root-ly hot'! Full up of current and ready to electrify reggae music lovers around the world.

Rob Symeon "Abso Rootly Hot" / THC Music / Olinda Road Distribution

Tracks : giveth and taket away, dubeth and taketh away, never turn my back on you, bible, lion in the jungle, i'm in the mood, leaders, put down your guns, pick up your dub, true born rasta, just can't get close to you, good, clean and conscious, good clean and dubwise, chant rasta song feat. Ruff Scott. 2001