On June 23rd, Menny More released his sophomore solo album Menny’s Book of Riddims. In celebration of that release, Menny is sharing the first track off that album with the song “Never Giving Up” for FREE download, this week only. Lets read up on the album & song…
Menny More – “Never Giving Up”
“Never Giving Up” Background:
To pull the curtain back a little on the song & album, we asked Menny More to provide some insight for us to absorb as we enjoy the new song. Here’s Menny More sent us in response to the song “Never Giving Up”…
“Never Giving Up” is the first single from Menny More’s latest album, “Menny’s Book of Riddims”. Sung over the classic CS Dodd “Declaration of Rights” riddim, “Never Giving Up” speaks of hope and endurance amongst adversity along the rocky road of life. Menny More acted as musical director in the re-lick of the riddim in addition to playing keys alongside Basil “Ben Bow” Creary on drums and Easy Star All Star band mates Shelton Garner on Guitar and Renard “Ras I Ray” Shy on Bass. The single is being released on 7 inch with the bonus track “One Moment in Time” on the B side and is the first song on the album, available now on ITunes by clicking HERE“
-Menny More
Menny More Bio/Background:
Menny More was born Junior Morrison in Kingston Jamaica on November 26, 1976 to parents Francis andMillicent Morrison. Originally living in Duhaney Park, Kingston, they moved around Jamaica to Manchester, Portmore and by the time Junior was 10 years old began splitting time between New York and Jamaica.
It was the legendary Dennis Brown who first suggested that Menny More sing instead of DJ. It was at Don One studio where Menny was there practicing some harmonies on a day that Dennis had come in to record. “He heard some of the stuff that I was doing and he told me that I needed to be singing, so of course I listened to the Man and… I started to sing”.
Menny continued to hone his skill and linked up with theEasy Star All Stars back in the early days of the band. It was Junior Jazz, a founding member of the touring band and a good friend of Menny’s, that made the link and Menny has been touring the world over, and over, with the Easy Stars since he started 7 years ago. “It truly has been a blessing to be able to travel all over the world, spreading reggae vibes and meeting wonderful people along the way. Big Up the Easy Star family for making this happen!”.
In 2011, Menny More embarked on a solo project, which brings him much joy, motivation and pride. He is ready to make his name known far and wide as a solo artist, one that has much experience and one that is spreading a positive message to the world, thanks to the wonderful instrument that Jah blessed him with.
Menny More’s Book of Riddims:
Menny’s Book of Riddims has a historic concept. The record is divided into three chapters, each containing five songs that sample various eras. The albums was designed to showcase Menny More’s amazingly versatile singing skills. It features strong vocals over big riddims from the early days of Studio One, all the way up to more modern riddims.
In its year of production, over forty musicians, engineers, and artists participated in the creation of this record. Names along the likes of Mykal Rose, Philip Fraser, Soljie, Glover, Ben Bow, Peter Pan, the Easy Star All Stars, Sudakaya, and many others, have all touched this project! In addition to writing the lyrics and singing lead on the tracks, Menny also sang about eight tracks worth of his own backups, played various instruments and acted as musical director on the re-licks of the classic riddims.
Menny has preceded this album with the release of two music videos, “Gunman” with Mykal Rose, and “Conquering Lion” with Philip Fraser. There is one more music video in production for the single “Jamaiquadorian” featuring Ecuador’s Sudakay.
Through Menny’s own record label, Troback Sound, the album will be released digitally, then on CD. There are also plans for releasing each of the chapters separately on vinyl. Whether a big fan of roots-reggae, or just into island music, pick up and enjoy Menny’s Book of Riddims! To read more about the album with track listing, click HERE
Menny More Links:
Troback Sound Website
Menny More facebook
Enjoy the FREE track on the Home Page!
Article By: Mike Patti
Photo By: David Norris
“Gunman” with Mykal Rose , now playing on Jamaican TV!
“Conquering Lion” with Philip Fraser, his first ever official music video in his 40+ year career!