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Boston-based reggae collective Naya Rockers, in association with Floki Studios (Iceland), proudly announce the release of Higher Education, an 11-track benefit LP uniting some of the most respected names in reggae, ska, dub, and New Orleans R&B. Recorded across 15 studios in five countries and featuring Grammy-winning artists, engineers, and musicians, the album was created to support youth music education at Kingston, Jamaica’s historic Alpha School of Music.
Backed by the powerhouse 10-piece Naya Rockers band, Higher Education brings together legends such as Earl “Chinna” Smith (featured on Rolling Stone’s list of 250 Greatest Guitarists of All Time), members of The Skatalites, John Brown’s Body, and Slightly Stoopid. The project stands as both a cultural statement and a milestone in global reggae collaboration.
One of the standout tracks, “The Right Path” by Stephen Marley, delivers the authentic bouncy reggae swing that defines the genre. With strong instrumentation, seamless vocal delivery, and songwriting that carries both ease and depth, the track captures reggae’s timeless energy and uplifting spirit.
From the opening call of Clinton Fearon’s “Come With Us” to the reflective closer “Thanks Dub” by Mad Professor, the album is a full journey through roots and rhythm. Highlights include Ivan Neville’s soulful title track “Higher Education,” Sister Nancy’s powerful “Teach The Youths,” Hector “Roots” Lewis’ heartfelt “Thanks,” Mike Love’s “Long Way Down,” Queen Omega’s empowering “Words of Wisdom,” and Angelo Moore & The Tamlins’ unifying “The Brotherhood.”
Notably, Hector “Roots” Lewis – the son of singer Barbara Jones and a Grammy-nominated musician, educator, and actor who portrayed Carlton Barrett in the 2024 film Bob Marley: One Love – contributes his unique depth to “Thanks,” bridging reggae’s foundation with its future.
The album was mixed by Stephen Stewart (Bob Marley, Third World, Steel Pulse) and Naya Rockers founder Nathan Sabanayagam at Kingston’s legendary Tuff Gong Studio and Anchor Studios. With 15 studios, 15 engineers, and 10 featured artists involved, Higher Education was created the old-school way: with soul, precision, and purpose.
Higher Education is available now on all major streaming platforms: open.spotify.com/album/5BHGm