about Strictly Roots

When Ras Jahson, leader of Strictly Roots and father to band members Rason Jahmal and Don Juan unexpectedly passed away after a San Francisco show in January 1998, it was only natural for his sons to take over. “There was never any blueprint for what would happen if this happened... I sang a song with the group here and there and did some singing from behind the drums, but I never considered being the lead singer for the group... That was something that just naturally came about,” said former-drummer Rason.

Through rain and through wind, Strictly Roots drew an amazingly loyal crowd at the Napa Valley Reggae Fest on May 14, 2000. One of the concertgoers in the crowd relayed, “These are my boys. I have to show my support any way I can.” And that was the vibe throughout their set. They performed many songs from their soon-to-be-released album “Next Generation” as well as some older tunes. Others were so impressed by their performance that they mistook them for the headlining band. Festival promoter Teresa Sylvia, who has been working with the band for many years, has a soft spot for them and is deeply committed to their rise to fame. She says the Strictly Roots organization is planning a tour to spread their message, bringing a new Reggae vibe to the world.