D’RAS SIMBAA ___ Born in Jamaica – the Reggae Capital of the World - of spiritual parentage; D’RAS began his musical mission in the early 70s. His first claim to fame came when he captured first place in his hometown’s Annual Talent Competition. From then he never looked back. D'ras has experienced many changes throughout his career, as well as in his personal life. As a founding member of a vocal trio called “The Chantels” he experienced his first musical setback. After years of preparation the group finally was offered a recording deal by the famous Jamaican Producer Duke Reid – The Trojan. As fate would have it the recording session was postponed and rescheduled for the day after D’Ras migrated to Canada. In Canada he entered The Canadian Reggae Music Industry with caution, and the desire to improve his craft. He made his debut as Carlton Harrison. Fans also remember him as Junior Reality. D’RAS is a sucker for vocal harmonies – his second love, after lead vocals, and maybe his greatest setback. Every time his group is on the threshold of international recognition something occurred that impedes their progress. He had this unfortunate experience with groups like “ The Mighty Mystics, Reality, The Chantels, and Planet Earth.” In the 70s – 80s The Mighty Mystics Band literally ruled The Canadian Reggae Circuit. Their latest release is a CD entitled: The Way I Feel. Reality – a vocal trio - recorded some singles that can be found on The Soul Power Record Label. Planet Earth is the bittersweet experience. Their very first recording was voted top honor at the 4th annual Canadian Reggae Music Awards. That night the group performed its winning song – Lady in Red - backed by The Liberators Band. They rocked the house to its foundation. Terry Brown, manager of the group shared Producer of the Year with Carlton Harrison, and Bob Williams – members of Planet Earth. This single is a Collectors Jewel, featuring the dynamic Issy Rivera - formerly of The Drifters, D’RAS, and Bob Williams of Bob & Wisdom fame. D’RAS seem to thrive on setbacks. He moves from strength to strength, methodically developing his craft. He is armed with a reservoir of youthful energy, educational and thought provoking lyrics. His melodies assaults the emotion, change lives, and promotes harmony. D’RAS is firmly committed to the redemption of Africa’s Scattered Black Children. His attention is focused at the International Youth Community. This is evident on tracks # 6 & 10 of his CD “Path I’ve Taken.” A Top-notch team of musicians and singers back D’RAS on stage. They are known as The Liberators Band. Together they have been given top billing at The Annual Marcus Garvey Celebrations in Toronto, Canada. The Guelph University Student Union shouted their approvals, and begged for more. The capacity crowd had more. Still they chanted for more when D’RAS and The Liberators exited the stage for the third and final time. This humble giant’s career has come full circle. His anointed name is D’RAS SIMBAA. With the assistance of Terry Brown they wrote and produced this long anticipated solo CD - Path I’ve Taken. Preliminary forecasters predict it to be an international masterpiece: A solid contribution to the integrity of The Canadian Reggae Music Industry. Many fans in cities such as: Toronto, Detroit, Winnipeg, Montreal, and St. Martens (Caribbean) have experienced the ferocity of this multi-talented Performer, Writer, Composer, and Producer. D’RAS SIMBAA roars for self- awareness, respect and harmony among humanity. He says "When these are realized we will all chant "OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL DAY.” Contact: melodyrockers@yahoo.ca