DistantNews
Support us
Kenne Blessin wins new fans with ‘Vice Versa Love’ remake

Kenne Blessin wins new fans with ‘Vice Versa Love’ remake

From Jamaica Observer · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Reggae singer Kenne Blessin has released a remake of Barrington Levy's 1990s hit "Vice Versa Love," which is gaining attention in reggae circles.
  • The remake, featured on his album "Caught My Attention," aims to introduce the song to younger audiences while preserving its original warmth and message of reciprocal love.
  • Blessin's musical journey began in Jamaica, influenced by reggae icons and later incorporating soca, rock, and hip-hop, leading to a diverse sound in his work.

Reggae artist Kenne Blessin is reinterpreting a classic with his new version of Barrington Levy's 1990s favorite, "Vice Versa Love." Rather than focusing on nostalgia, Blessin aims to offer a fresh perspective on the song, celebrated for its gentle groove and message of mutual affection. His remake is already resonating within reggae communities.

Blessin expressed pleasant surprise at the positive reception, noting that listeners appreciate his choice of song. "People really appreciate the fact that I chose that song, and they keep telling me it is time for this living, legendary song right now because of the turmoil in the world today," he said. This remake is part of his latest 14-track album, "Caught My Attention," which explores themes of love, self-awareness, and unity through a polished yet organic sound that blends contemporary production with roots reggae's emotional directness.

The response has been pleasantly surprising, people really appreciate the fact that I chose that song, and they keep telling me it is time for this living, legendary song right now because of the turmoil in the world today.

— Kenne BlessinOn the reception of his remake of 'Vice Versa Love'.

The inspiration for revisiting "Vice Versa Love" struck Blessin naturally during the album's production. "The Vice Versa Love came into the inspiration of the project, came naturally one day while I was playing a riddim, and it just kept coming at me and I love a natural feeling and that made it magical," he explained. The album also features traditional love songs like "Wanna Be With You" and "Spread the Love."

Born and raised in Jamaica, Blessin's musical upbringing was diverse, absorbing influences from Jamaican legends like Bob Marley and Sizzla, as well as American hip-hop artists. His musical path accelerated in Antigua after winning the Caribbean Star Search competition, leading to his soca hit "My Love Will Never Die." Now based in Atlanta, Blessin continues to reinterpret popular songs through a reggae lens, with previous covers including Elton John's "Nikita" and Ed Sheeran's "Perfect."

The Vice Versa Love came into the inspiration of the project, came naturally one day while I was playing a riddim, and it just kept coming at me and I love a natural feeling and that made it magical.

— Kenne BlessinExplaining the inspiration behind the 'Vice Versa Love' remake.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jamaica Observer. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.