Little Jamaica Honoured with First-Ever Music Project “Little Jamaica Then and Now”

Toronto, ON – The vibrant history and cultural significance of Toronto’s iconic “Little Jamaica” have been captured in a new music project, Little Jamaica Then and Now. Produced by Masani Productions Inc. and supported by the Ontario Arts Council and the Canadian Reggae Music Association, the all-reggae album brings together some of Canada’s most renowned reggae voices to celebrate the community’s deep roots and nostalgic charm. The project aims to preserve and share the legacy of Little Jamaica, which has long been recognized as a cultural landmark in Toronto, through the power of music.

“The idea for the project came about because I wanted to document the history of Little Jamaica through music and share the beauty of the community in a way that Canada and the world could consume,” explained Masani Montague, the album’s producer. “What better way to do that than through music? I asked artists to collaborate, gave them the theme, and I think we got it right.”

The album’s 10 tracks encapsulate the essence of Little Jamaica, from the famous mural showcasing Canada’s reggae legends to the landmark stores along the Eglinton West strip. It paints a musical picture of a community known for its cultural heritage, including authentic Jamaican cuisine that brings back memories of home for many. Each artist offers a unique take, contributing to a collective narrative that celebrates the spirit of this beloved neighborhood.

The project features an impressive lineup of talent, including JUNO Award winners Nana McLean with “Eglinton Avenue” and Korexion with “Let Me Tell You,” as well as JUNO Award nominee Ras Lee, who delivers a tribute to the community in “Little Jamaica.” Other standout tracks include “My Reggae Band” by Papa Levy, “Eglinton City” by Carl Henry, and “Up On Eglinton” by Benaiah, along with contributions from emerging artists Richie Flo (“Yard Man”), Welda (“Live and Direct”), Jade Faith (“I Love You”), and Fancy Lady (“Hold A Vibe”).

Distributed by VPAL Music, a subsidiary of VP Records, the album has already generated buzz in the industry. Donovan Williams from VPAL Music expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Canada has a lot of talented artists and producers. This project is a first ever with a lot of history, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the Canadian music fraternity.”

Since its official release on October 4th, Little Jamaica Then and Now has been made available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora. As a musical celebration of Toronto’s Little Jamaica, the album invites listeners to take a journey through the community’s past and present, offering a soulful tribute to a cherished cultural hub.

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