Kabaka Pyramid, the Grammy-winning reggae artist from Kingston, Jamaica, is known for seamlessly blending reggae roots with dancehall and hip-hop. Influenced by hip-hop icons like Raekwon and reggae legends such as Peter Tosh, he began writing lyrics, rapping, and making beats in high school, transforming his family’s living room into a makeshift studio. Growing up, he was inspired by ’90s dancehall stars like Bounty Killer, Baby Cham, and Sean Paul. In 1997, discovering The Wu-Tang Clan was a pivotal moment, he and his friends formed Bombsquad, mirroring Wu-Tang’s raw, lyrical style. Winning a Grammy was a career-defining milestone, validating years of dedication to his craft. We sat down with Kabaka Pyramid to discuss his inspirations, childhood, and the rich tapestry of his upbringing. Styled by Neesha Sharma and shot by Mike Gripz.
Growing up in Jamaica, who were your musical and style influences?
I was always into the more lyrical artists from when i was in high school, 90s dancehall was in full swing with Bounty Killa, Baby Cham, Spragga Benz, and Sean Paul standing out the most to me at the time. At home I would watch BET and MTV and in 1997 I discovered The Wu-Tang Clan, I was a huge fan. Inspired by the clan we formed a cru called Bombsquad and we wore wallabee clarks and wide legged jeans getting in as much trouble as we could without getting expelled from school lol.
Shoes: Clarks
How has your upbringing and experiences in Jamaica shaped your music and style as an artist?
My biggest influence is Rastafari livity (culture), this was introduced to me in the most meaningful way by the music of Sizzla Kalongi. His message, delivery, fearlessness, and devotion to His Majesty was life changing. I committed myself to making conscious music from that time and I have never deviated since
What was it like winning a Grammy?
Probably the high point of my entire life to this point! An overwhelming feeling of excitement, triumph, gratitude, and just knowing that all the work i and my team have put in over the years was all worth it. I wasn’t expecting it at all so that made it feel even better
What are your hopes and plans for your next album?
I just want to keep growing as an artist, song writer, vocalist, producer, engineer, everything I’ve been doing to this point but on a higher level. I want to get deeper into who I am as a person within the music, to let the fans into my world and my mental space. I think there’s a lot i can offer to help navigate this crazy time we are in.
Trousers: Slax London
Trainers x top: Puma
What’s it like working with an iconic family like the Marleys?
Linking up with Gong was probably the best decision I’ve ever made musically. I’ve learned so much in the last 10 years, my whole trajectory career wise took a turn for the better from the first studio session to this day. I’m just grateful I get to play a small part in the Marley legacy, even if it’s by extension haha
Jamaica is a small island, yet it has such a massive cultural and musical influence worldwide. Why do you think that is?
I feel like the island must be on some kind of energy vortex or something because it’s crazy what we’ve been able to do. From Marcus Garvey to Bob Marley to Usain and Shelly-Ann, there’s a bravery and an unapologetic self-confidence that is innate in the Jamaican consciousness. The most rebellious Africans were taken to Jamaica during slavery days so maybe that is a factor as to why we are so special.
Trainers: puma
Glasses: Messy weekend
Are there any Jamaican brands or creatives that you see coming up that excite you?
So many, I have to big up my Jamaica based stylist Shampange X – and her brand Seora. Also, the Filmaica Cru who have shot many of my videos. Shout out to Juss Buss TV, Wee Design, Kingston Creative, Nurse Signs, and Eyedealist JA. When I was in London I did a shoot and wore Nicholas Daley who is of Jamaican heritage and doing great things.
What legacy or message do you hope to leave through your music and career?
I would want people to know that you can achieve anything with purposeful work, smart work, planning and execution, and that we can shape reality without thoughts, actively creating our future.
