With his original style being a fusion of the music of the African diaspora, IYah-
gift’s unique flavour echoes traces of reggae, traditional African rhythms and hip

hop, to create a mind blowing synthesis of sound. Born in West Africa to a
Jamaican father and a Nigerian mother, IYah-gift’s love for creating music was first
influenced by the artists his parents loved, including Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, and
Louis Armstrong. After moving to Jamaica at age 10 and then to the United States
at 16, he grew to appreciate artists like Sizzla, Lauryn Hill, and the Wu-Tang Clan.
Gift developed a love for, and the skill to create explosive lyrical word play and
rhythms that speak to the heart. He began writing poetry at a young age, and as
he got older, this wordsmith began to combine poetry and music, he became a
freestyle genius, creating extemporaneous lyrics that awed his audiences at rap
ciphers and performances. It has been said by Bunny Wailer that Gift’s music
comes from the heart: “His music is breezy, his lyrics are sharp, and his stage
presence is comforting and inviting.” He seems to shine a light that attracts all to
listen, dance and simply feel good. Junior Reid expressed that “Iyah-gift is a
talented musician and artist. I have had the pleasure of working with him; and
several of my sons have recorded at his studio. The future of Jamaican music will
be bright with young talent like IYah-gift.” A talented song writer and producer, he
operates his own studio in Kingston, Jamaica; where he is the founder and C.E.O.
of the One Hart Music production company. Gift has produced songs for himself
and other artists including, Rasta Zilion, Pampi Judah, Culture Dan, K-Lyrikal,
Calice Earth, Toppa Bling, Skippa, Arsenal, Andrew Blood, Illmatic, YMG, Heru,
Lion Cub, and Israel Voice to name a few. Artists have been known to enjoy
working with him, because the originality and diversity that are characteristic of his
beats allowing singers and songwriters freedom of creativity. IYah-gift’s musical
creations are an amalgam of black music at its finest, a unique genre that is
different but “feels” familiar at the same time. IYah-gift was recently recorded on
the Grove Rhythm produced by Casper. Also on this rhythm are Beenie Man,
Movado, Erupt, Gyptian and more. The single “Bounce and Roll” is slated for
release in May 2012. It is fresh and hypnotic, with that touch of positivity that is
signature of IYah-gift. Other releases to look forward to from IYah-Gift in May 2012
include “Da MastaPeace” produced by Makonnen (Maki-B) and “When You’re
Around,” self-produced by IYah-Gift. He is also currently recording songs with
producers Sigh Griffin, and Analog Arts. Gift says that he expresses his life
experiences and feelings through music, he wants others to share and relate. He
believes firmly that by changing minds we can change the world. “Control the mic
like it’s attached to wrist, ever focused on the works that I must accomplish like
repatriation the building of the nation, schools and hospitals with the right
vegetation.” This young artist is a phenomenon. Look out for his upcoming work.
His truth and light are infectious. His music is honest and sincere, and far from
mundane. He has a way of speaking to your soul.