It's often been said that music is the universal language. And, if thats so, no one speaks it better than Papa San. He opens his latest release, the astonishing, compelling, arresting Real & Personal, with a question that almost teases the listener to try and answer it. Is it rock? /Is it roll?/Is it reggae? Papa San asks, as machine-gun volley of percussion, crunching metal guitars and synths pound into play on the sizzling More Life. And, of course, the answer is simply,
It’s been said that music is a universal language. If so, no one speaks it better than Papa San, known as Jamaica’s fastest lyrical speaking DJ, now ordained minister, Reverend Tyrone Thompson, who has produced two number-one Billboard hit singles in the secular arena, including “Gimmie Love” and “Program.”
In 1997, after being saved, Papa San released three reggae gospel albums that went to the top-ten Billboard charts: Victory, God & I and Real & Personal. He now returns again with his fourth album Higher Heights. The album speaks for itself based on its controversial sound of roots, rock and reggae with a combination of Jamaica’s dancehall sound crossing over into the global industry of gospel music, delivering the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This unique sound will not only tease the listener's ear but will also put a conviction upon the hearts, to create change in one’s life, based on the message of Christ and the testimony of his journey among us.
The album features “In Da Ghettio” that speaks of ghetto life and the hope of change needed in the inner city community. Another track that has a lot of message is “You Take Care of Me,” which speaks of God’s faithfulness in times of persecution, where San’s testimony is that God always showed up every time he needed Him. Another awesome track is “Stand,” which speaks of Christians standing firm and not compromising the gospel no matter what the circumstances may be. A soul-filling track “Prayer” featuring Marvin Winans, Jr. is a prayer reaching out to God for people living in the midst of poverty who have been rejected and ignored by society. Finally, an anointed reggae worship song featuring Ron Connoley and others encourages all to worship God in spirit and in truth in whatever language they know.
Papa San’s Accomplishments
He was the first gospel artist in the Caribbean to hit the Reggae Billboard Charts, not just once but three times, featuring all three albums.
First DJ artist to be nominated for and win a Stellar Award
San has also been nominated for a Dove Award
Has won 12 Marlin Awards
Holds the title “Number One Gospel Artiste” for the World Music Awards
San has also been featured on Kirk Franklin’s “Rebirth" album on the track titled "Awesome God”
Featured on tobyMac’s hit album
Featured on Reverend Jackie McCoulough ‘s track “Stay Connected”
Featured on top record producer Percey Brady’s single entitled “Hold Up The Light”
In addition to Papa San’s awesome talent as a successful reggae, DJ artist and minister of music, he also wears many hats including that of songwriter and producer. He has written for legendary songbird Glacia Robinson, Kirk Franklin’s duet “Breathe Again” tobyMac and many others. He has also worked as a producer for numerous projects such as Fun in the Sun, and the production of Dr. Carlene Davis’ and Glacia Robinson’s gospel albums.
The ministry of Papa San has won many people for Christ throughout the years. With the production and release of each album, the ministry has experienced tremendous growth. Papa San’s hope and conviction is that the release of this new album will bring another great harvest and reach as many souls as possible for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
One of Papa San’s concerts had record-breaking attendance of more than 40,000 in Uganda, Africa, where anointing from the presence of God led hundreds to the altar. This led ministers to build a new church to accommodate and spiritually feed these new souls for Christ. Based on the experience, Papa San created his own motto: “I am a fisher of men and music is my bait."
Papa San was inspired to produced and release this new album based on his personal conviction, his journey and or walk with Jesus Christ. This took him from just attending church to having a personal relationship with Christ Jesus, taking him to deeper depths and higher heights.