Brooklyn based reggae singer, songwriter and producer Ed Robinson, who garnered international attention with the single “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” is back in the spotlight with a slick new video and tribute song titled “Our Heroes,” that was recorded for E2 Recordings Inc and ManMen Productions Intl Inc. Since its release a few weeks ago, the song has quickly become an anthem on Caribbean radio programs in the tri-state area and recently clawed its way to the #1 spot on the Weekly Star Top Ten chart in the USA.
Earlier this week artiste manager/producer Luciana “Lucci” Maneri of ManMen Productions Intl., and Push Broom Gang Productions hosted a successful launch party for the single and video at the Retro Lounge and Grill in Freeport NY. The night kicked off with a video presentation and followed with a rousing live performance from Ed that allowed patrons to get up close and personal with the singer who explained why he recorded the song and video which was shot on location at VP Records head office and store in Queens, New York.
“We made the song to celebrate and pay tribute to veterans like Dennis Brown, Roman Stewart, Jacob Miller, Delory Wilson, Bob Marley, Alton Ellis and Gregory Issacs who passed away much too early” he said. “They have contributed significantly to the reggae industry over the years and have left us a legacy of good music and songs that will last us a lifetime.”
The historic night was also and occasion to ‘celebrate the veterans who are still alive’ and their were many in the house including, Johnny Osbourne, Frankie Paul, Wayne “Sling Ting” Smith, Carrot Jarrett formally of Third World, Michael Palmer, Ansel Meditations, Big Youth, Glen Washington, Sammy Dread, and DownBeat Sound.
“It is a tremendous feeling of accomplishment to work with Ed on this special project. I am confident music lovers from all around the world will find enjoyment in the heartfelt song and the album when it is released in 2011,” said Maneri proudly during a TV interview.
Earlier Derrick Barrett and the Statement Band took the stage to set the tone for Ed, who was dressed to impress in Riddim Driven Clothing. He kicked off his set with Alton Ellis’ “Ain’t That Loving You” that earned heartfelt applauds from the full house. He continued to mesmerize fans with “No More Mr. Lonely”, Gregory Issacs’ “Rumors” and many other tribute songs to our falling heroes. A documentary was also presented of VP Records founder Ms. Pat Chin and her Riddim Driven Clothing line. Ed acknowledged the great contribution that Ms Pat has given to the reggae industry.
Scores of local and out-of-town music lovers, entertainers, tastemakers and VIPs turned out to show support at the event, including VP Records Chris Chin, Sharon Gordon (CPR), Louie Grant & DJ Roy of Irie Jam Radio, Tanya Mullings, Mikey Jarrett, Reggae A.M.P.P.S. members, Delbert Rose, Stephen Souza, Marcia Davis, Splicerr, Scepta, Dance Master, Devon Jorge, Kapa Shanti, Junior Dread, Yanks, Dan Wallace, Courtney Panton, New Kingston, Benny Boy and Candyman.
Robinson, whose career span over twenty year, launched his career as the drummer in a rock band before transitioning to a successful singer, songwriter and producer. He released his first album for VP Records titled ‘Once Again’ that contained the highly acclaimed single “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door.” A second album, Sky is the Limit, was released on Jet Star Records and featured powerful songs like “Bad Minded People”, “Skin I’m In”, and “Burnin’ & Lootin.’ His tremendous production talent has found him at work with industry greats like Luciano, Maxi Priest, Buju Banton, Shabba Ranks, Super Cat, Snoop Dogg, Warren G and Dennis Brown.
