Freddie McGregor to Release New Album, Di Captain

With his deep reggae catalogue spanning almost five decades, Freddie McGregor is one of the few first-generation reggae icons here today who has blazed a path through virtually every stage of the genre - from ska, rock steady to early and modern day reggae. On January 29, 2013, he takes the reigns once again with Di Captain (VP Records/Big Ship), his brand new studio album after four years in the making.

The album's title refers slyly to his continued status as captain of his Big Ship production complex. This 16-track collection demonstrates Freddie's magnificent talents as a songwriter and his taste for cover versions, romantic ballads and strong cultural messages. Original songs include the heartfelt tribute to his island "Move Up Jamaica,” the powerfully pleading "More Love in the Ghetto" and earnestly romantic and gospel-flavored "Love I Believe In.

 " As for cover versions, Freddie's draws from a wide and varied array of great pop anthems (Beatles’ "You Won't See Me," Luther Vandross' "A House Is Not a Home") and reggae songs of the past (“Bob Marley’s “Rainbow Country,” The Heptones’ “Equal Rights”). Each rendition is infused with Freddie's own unmistakable vibe and rich, soulful vocals. "These songs were very specially chosen," Freddie says. "We took the greatest pains in making sure these would be classic songs that will last for a long time. 

I chose songs like "Equal Rights" because I love the message and because the youth need to hear it. We made a special effort to keep it as grass-roots as we can." Members of Jamaica's studio A-list perform on the album - from the great bass-and-drum duos of Mafia & Fluxy and Steely & Clevie to session aces like saxophonist Dean Fraser and keyboardist Carlton "Bubblers" Ogilvie. Former Heptones frontman Leroy Sibbles lends his talents as a bass player on several tracks, including Freddie's excellent version of their hit "Equal Rights." Di Captain also features guest vocals from up-and-coming artists like Etana on "Let It Be Me" and Gappy Ranks on “Standing Strong,” a remake of Freddie's 1980s hit "Bobby Bobylon.”