Vaughn Benjamin, the voice of Midnite and Akae Beka, was one of the best and most prolific reggae vocalists of the modern era. He was a scholar, poet, teacher, and solver of mysteries. A voracious reader, he was incredibly creative - constantly writing poems and songs. Those close to him advise that he had a photographic memory, which helps explain the broad field of topics he discussed with precise detail in his work. He released over 70 albums in a 25-year period.
LIVING TESTAMENT is the final album Vaughn Benjamin recorded before he transitioned in November of 2019. In late October of 2019, he travelled to Grass Valley, California, recording this 11-track album at Ras Biblical’s studio, Trinity Farm, over a period of 2 days. The producers gathered 11 masterful musicians on these tracks, including Manuel “Go A Chant” Guerra, Denfield “Ras Pulse” Potter, Walker Pillow, Scott Lynwood Davis, Befekadu Assefa and Tuff Lion. Together, these musicians weaved together a powerful family of songs that tell a timeless and truly unique story, a masterpiece of roots reggae.
In this interview, we speak with Manel (Go A Chant) and Biblical (Trinity Farm), who were present for the creation of this album. We learn more about these recording sessions and what happened behind the scenes.
LIVING TESTAMENT is a monumental album and an important piece of history. It is available on LP, CD, and high-quality download courtesy of Go A Chant, Trinity Farm, Before Zero Records, and I-Roots Records. The majestic cover artwork was created by Ras Elijah Tafari.
Order the LIVING TESTAMENT LP, CD and download at: www.irootsrecords.com/akaemid... and iroots.bandcamp.com
I-Roots Records has over 40 Akae Beka / Midnite titles in stock and ships worldwide.
Watch the full interview: • The Making of Akae Bek...
Akae Beka IG: / akae_beka
Go A Chant IG: / goachantproductions
Trinity Farm IG: / trinityfarmmusic
I-Roots Records IG: / irootsrecords
Akashic Records IG: / akashicrecordsreggae
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