Alexi Russle

as good, and having an artist as a mother exposed him to the arts from early on…especially music. While his Mum was out painting Alexi spent a lot of time with his grandmother who was an aspiring writer, and it was while watching her typing away he decided to write his first song at four years of age. She was also a devout Anglican and a passionate singer, gave him his first insights into the art of singing, as he accompanied her to St. At age 6 some artist friends of his mother brought a newly released album called “Catch a Fire” by Bob Marley and the Wailers, and he fell in love with reggae music. At 8 he was learning piano and at 12 he was taking guitar lessons, and a pivotal moment was when a friend suggested they go to a Steel Pulse concert who was promoting their Earth Crisis album at the time. They walked down to Cinema 2 Drive In, and at 14 years old, the smoke, the vibes, and the energy was intoxicating, and the inspiration …was embedded. Alexi always seemed to be chosen in school to sing the lead parts in musical productions, and while away at university in Boston he occasionally found himself in a Jazz bar singing Bob Marley covers. But it was not until his early 20’s, after returning from a 6 month trip to India, he decided to follow his heart and create music. He started a band and started recording on a 4-track Tascam and devoted his time to learning the recording arts, also playing gigs on the North Coast hotel circuit to earn a buck or two. The reality of having a family set in and he put his dreams temporarily on hold. It was not until 20 years and three beautiful kids later, he decided to revisit the dream of making a classic Reggae album. Legendary producer Barry O’Hare welcomed him into his small studio on James Avenue in Ocho Rios. It was so comfortable and Barry being so easy going, they set to work on REBEL LION right away. Barry had all the links with exceptional musicians and an uncanny ear for sound, and Alexi had the songs. Unfortunately and tragically, a couple months after completion of the album Barry passed on due to complications with the Corona Virus. To the traditional elements of roots reggae, Alexi brings his own original views on universal themes, such as love, world affairs, and the human condition. He is very proud and most grateful to be able to contribute to the vast tapestry of Jamaican music and culture. “Suh weh dis white yute tink him seh him a go?” Undaunted, and as originally intended, he will use his music to serve and uplift the people. To provide music for the spirit, and to bring people of all nations closer together…and to play his part in drawing attention to his mission of the “Oneness of Humanity”!