IMAR SHEPHERD BLENDS REGGAE AND SOCA FOR NEW SINGLE “DO IT!”

NOT many artists or producers have had a lot of success blending reggae with soca, but for his latest song, singer Imar Shepherd thought fusing the two sounds would be a good idea.

Do It is the title of the song which was released yesterday by Nyah Bless Productions, a Philadelphia-based company.

“Is a song that empowers the ladies; there are not a lot of those around today,” said Shepherd. He added that Do It is also a stress-buster: “People can get up in the morning and exercise to it; it’s real uptempo.”

Shepherd has been recording with Nyah Bless for the last three years, but Do It is his first release for the label.

Born Omar Shephard, he is originally from Richmond Gap, St Thomas, and has been recording since 2007. His first release, Woman I Love You, was done in 2007 with Demarco.

This was followed by songs for various producers including ‘Calibud’ (Black and Beautiful) and Carl Morrison (Africa).

With Nyah Bless, Shepherd believes he has found some stability. He admits the entertainment industry can be frustrating.

“With my type of music, I feel I can make a difference, but the songs haven’t got the justice they deserve,” he said.

The reggae/soca combination has worked in the past for Admiral Bailey and Stitchie with Byron Lee and the Dragonaires, and to a greater extent with Vincentian singer Kevin Lyttle and Spragga Benz.

Imar Shepherd is banking on Do It to pay similar dividends.