Aleighcia Scott has released her new ska single “Gwreiddiau,” a bright and joyful celebration of roots, identity and cultural connection.
The Cardiff-born reggae artist, BBC broadcaster and Y Llais coach continues building toward her forthcoming debut Welsh-language album with a track that brings together her Welsh and Jamaican heritage in full color. “Gwreiddiau,” which translates to “Roots,” serves as the second single from the project and follows Scott into one of the most ambitious chapters of her already history-making career.
Written during studio sessions with Yws Gwynedd and Rich James Roberts, “Gwreiddiau” was shaped by conversations about the connections between Wales and Jamaica. Rather than treating those identities as separate worlds, Scott uses the song to highlight the similarities between both cultures, from community and warmth to a shared relationship with land, place and belonging.
The song’s central message is rooted in unity. Scott weaves together references to both national anthems, tying Wales and Jamaica into one larger idea of home. With its upbeat ska rhythm and language-blending spirit, “Gwreiddiau” feels like both a personal statement and a wider celebration of cultural pride.
“What a joy to create ska and an honour to do so in the Welsh language,” Scott says of the release.
The single arrives during a major year for Scott, who continues to expand her presence across music, broadcasting and Welsh culture. In addition to her weekly BBC Radio Wales show and regular work on BBC 1Xtra, Scott recently returned as the reigning champion coach for season two of S4C’s Y Llais. She is also set to host a new S4C series titled GWALIA, filming across Wales this year.
Scott was also recently named an official Learn Welsh Ambassador by the National Centre for Learning Welsh. This August, she will be inducted into the Green Robes of Gorsedd Cymru at Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las, one of Wales’ highest cultural honors.
For reggae fans, Scott has already carved out a unique lane. Her 2023 album Windrush Baby, produced by RoryStoneLove, reached number one on the iTunes Reggae Album Chart, earned a Welsh Music Prize nomination and helped introduce her blend of roots reggae, soul and Welsh identity to a wider audience. She also made history with “Dod o’r Galon,” recognized as the first Welsh-language reggae track to reach number one.
Her forthcoming Welsh-language album is expected to arrive this summer ahead of the National Eisteddfod. The project will feature original songs touching on love, loss and heartbreak, as well as a reimagining of the Welsh national anthem “Hen Wlad fy Nhadau.”
With “Gwreiddiau,” Aleighcia Scott continues to prove that reggae’s reach is global, personal and deeply connected to place. The result is a ska single that feels rooted in history while pushing Welsh-language reggae into new territory.
“Gwreiddiau” is available now on all major streaming platforms.
