There’s something timeless about a great reggae groove—and DeLa, longtime saxophonist for Slightly Stoopid, knows exactly how to tap into that energy. With his band Steady Rock Easy, DeLa delivers a soulful new single, “Til the Dancing’s Through,” that feels like it’s been playing on your favorite record for years.
A Story Behind the Lyrics
“It all started off with the first line of the lyrics,” DELA told The Pier. “To be honest, I thought it was the hook. It wasn’t until I imagined this scenario of why a lot of us stick around in toxic relationships that it set the tone for the whole song.”
That emotional honesty anchors the track. From the first downbeat, “Til the Dancing’s Through” flows in with warmth—steady drums, a deep roots bassline, and a horn section that doesn’t just accent the rhythm, it tells a story. DeLa’s saxophone tone is smooth and conversational, while Steady Rock Easy keeps the pocket tight and grounded in a vintage, analog aesthetic. It’s clean, but lived-in—polished without losing soul.
A Legacy in Reggae
“I’ve been performing reggae and Jamaican-influenced music my whole life,” DeLa said. “From ska bands in the late ’90s, to John Brown’s Body in the early 2000s, and of course Slightly Stoopid for almost 20 years.”
“I’ve been fortunate enough to play with reggae legends like Sly and Robbie, Inner Circle, Toots, Don Carlos, and The Meditations, just to name a few—so reggae is a huge part of what’s in my soul.”
Interestingly, that lifetime of experience is what gives this project its edge. “Til the Dancing’s Through” isn’t trying to reinvent reggae—it’s rooted in tradition, anchored in emotion, and delivered with heart. It’s the kind of track that makes you close your eyes, lean back, and just feel.
A Band That Knows the Pocket
Although, DeLa fronts the band, he’s quick to point out that Steady Rock Easy is a group effort.
“I’m lucky to have a great community of very talented musicians that were involved in making this happen,” he said.
Alongside DELA on vocals and sax, the band features Paul Wolstencroft adding soulful harmonies, Brian Thomas on melodic trombone, and a rhythm section that’s all groove—Aaron Bellamy on bass and Jesse Hayes on drums. Steve DiGregorio brings rich textures on keys, while Steve Fell lays down tasteful, rootsy guitar. The track was given its final shine by Slightly Stoopid’s longtime front-of-house engineer James Wisner. Wisner whose mix brings modern clarity without sacrificing warmth.
More Music on the Horizon
If you’ve been craving that classic reggae feel with real emotion behind it, this DELA & Steady Rock Easy single is one to put on repeat. It doesn’t just sound good—it feels good.
“We’re planning to release more singles throughout the year,” DeLa said. “The next one, ‘Livin’ Life This Way,’ is coming in June.”
The band also has plans to hit the Northeast this fall, with live shows and festival appearances in the works.
