Community News
Jay Douglas’s “Muschange” a new double-single which has a serious message about changing times
BY MICHAEL THOMAS
“Muschange came about just at the beginning of the pandemic when it hit world-wide everybody was running for cover, but there was no hiding place.”
If anyone looks at Jay Douglas in a crowd, it is highly unlikely that that person would realize who is in front of them. From the simple way that he carries himself, to his soft-spoken tone and innocent smile nothing prepares you for the hurricane that is about to hit you musically.
Douglas who began his musical career in the sixties is an electrifying performer with a magical voice to match his everchanging stage moves. This Jamaican Canadian musical icon is second to none and has an international appearances list that is more than a mile long.
Jay, as his friends call him received a 2020 JUNO Award nomination for the single “Jah Children” featuring General Trees. “Jah Children” is Douglas’ second JUNO Award nomination. The first being for 2012’s reggae release, Lover’s Paradise. Douglas has also won NOW Magazine’s (‘Best R&B Act,) the (Annual Toronto Reggae Awards Male Reggae Vocalist of the Year,) and the (BBPA Harry Jerome Awards’ ‘G98.7 Entertainment Award.)
Douglas’ latest single “Muschange” featuring dancehall reggae recording DJ, Lord Sassafras, was released internationally on July 10th, 2020. “Muschange” is available through Slammin Media and distributed worldwide by Believe Distribution.
This new track from Douglas, has a serious message about the changing times, mixed within the genuine Reggae fabric. It was put together by Reggae drum and bass royalty Sly Dumber, and Robbie Shakespeare. His ensemble cast includes Donovan “Danny Maestro” Lee, who helped produce and engineer the track, Toots and the Maytals’ lead guitarist, Carl Harvey, and Michael McNeil on keyboard.
Toronto Caribbean Newspaper had a conversation with this exceptionally versatile entertainer on his talents, his knowledge, and his new single as well.
When asked what was the motivation behind his new single called “Muschange,” Douglas said, “Muschange came about just at the beginning of the pandemic when it hit world-wide everybody was running for cover, but there was no hiding place.”
Douglas said that he almost didn’t get the music he wanted for the song. Out of determination, he decided to press on with what he was given and that’s how the track (Muschange)really came along.
Toronto Caribbean Newspaper asked Douglas, what is the secret of his longevity in the music business? “Jah, “God, Jehovah, Yahweh, call him what you want,” he said, “It is a gift that is given to me from the most-high, I treat it with love, respect and reverence. It’s not my music I am just a messenger of peace and love.”
As for what is in the works for Douglas? the crooner has a video out now for his new single (Muschange) on YouTube and is in the process of creating more new music with famed Grenadian producer Mr. Eddie Bullen.
Douglas said all the accolades and everything that he has achieved is not for himself but the up and coming youth. “I give praises to the most-high every time and accept them with gratitude. All of this it is for the young people; they are the gem of the future.
What I am working on, is to have a home base where I can share with these young aspiring artists. Tell them the truth. Hug them. Tell them I love them with Jah music, and show them the foundation of the business and the music.”