The Mighty Jamma is a talented musician/vocalist and writer specialising in the art of the steel pans. Very good skills, so how did Jamma get started? "He started playing the pans in 1978 when I was 11yrs old in my local school. Through visiting Trinidad the 'homeland' of the steel pan on several occasions his skills just got better and better." During his teens, Jamma realised music was the only thing he wanted to do in life and went on to study Jazz music at college. There was no specific course for steel pan players so Jamma adapted the music theory to hilight the dynamics of his specialist instrument. Gradually via various showcases and by mixing with a select group of musicians Jamma became recognised as a pioneer in this field. "Yes, He broke down the stereotype associated with the pans, people generally think of "Yellow Bird" and "Island In The Sun" whenever you mention this instrument! In the Caribbean the steel pan is a well respected instrument. After college Jamma dedicated his time working with local community by running a series of steel pan workshops in schools thus ensuring the Caribbean tradition & culture passes to another generation. He's also literally kept this skill in the family - his two children who are accomplished pan players. During the same period Jamma continued performing and competing in competitions, eventually having his skills recognised at National level. In 1987 Jamma became one of the UK's National Steel Pan Soloist Champion, and held onto this prestigious crown for 3 years. "This really boosted his talent. He decided to concentrate on music production. Yes he definitely moved up another level and got gigs all over Europe, Japan and the Caribbean. He has also performed UK jazz musicians. A lot of people heard about him through the grapevine whilst performing as a duet with pianist Mervin Africa. Mervin also linked me up with the UK's premiere saxophonist Courtney Pine." In 1997, Jamma recorded his debut album 'Pan In Flight - Barcelona' featuring his own compositions. This attracted the attention of The Breakfast Band, Trinidad's top jazz/funk band who invited Jamma on to their 1998 Japanese tour.
Jamma is currently promoting his second album "The Sun" and brand new Carnival anthem/ single "Bumcy Party'.Available for Festivals,Hotel parties, Corporate events etc. Also teaches workshops at School, Colleges, Universities, and Community centres.
UK's No1 Steel pan soloist champion, Also Nottinghill carnival calypso King 2001
For Bookings Contact:
Uk Tel: 0870 8300683 - Mob: 07766 945663 - 07944432649
Abroad Tel: +44 (0)870 8300683 - Mob: +44 (0)7766 945663