For Sheldon Shepherd, his birthday is as much about giving as receiving. Today, Friday, September 18, the Jamaican dub poet, actor, and multidisciplinary artist continues a personal tradition of marking his birthday by giving something of himself, with the worldwide release of his new album, Give Thanks.
Out Now via NoMaddic Movement Ltd. Distributed by Tuff Gong International
“I started a thing years ago where I ‘give’ on my birthday as a way to show how grateful I am for the support I have received in this life.”
— Sheldon Shepherd
“It is more mystical and divine than anything else. I don’t take the credit for this album.”
“It came to and through me, as opposed to from me, like a conduit or vessel.”
Give Thanks carries a distinctive Jamaican and Rastafari sound, with 10 dub poetry recordings across its 11 tracks, including a special reasoning with the late Jamaican visual artist and cultural icon Neville Garrick. Ahead of its worldwide release, the album was introduced through listening events in London and Kingston, giving audiences an early look into the ideas and experiences behind the project.
Through Give Thanks, Shepherd pays homage to Jamaica’s dub poetry tradition, honouring voices including Oko Onuora, Mutabaruka, Linton Kwesi Johnson and his father, Keith Shepherd. Released on his Earthstrong, the album also invites radio presenters and DJs to explore the project, select a track that speaks to them and share it with their audiences.
Give Thanks is available worldwide September 18, on major digital streaming platforms.
Album Tracklist
- Key To Yu City
- For Neville
- Shooting
- Bad Boy Ratty
- One A Dem Youth Deh
- Healing
- Ode To Dub Poetry
- Don Tan Natty
- Babylon Be Still
- Carnival
- Give Thanks
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