Interview with Yellowman [08/17/2018] @ Rototom

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Interview with Yellowman at the 25th edition of the Rototom Sunsplash in Benicassim, Spain on Friday, 17th of August 2018

Could you introduce yourself?My name is King Yellowman, King of the Dancehall, and we’re at the Rototom Reggae Sunsplash. Bless up, big up. King Yellowman.

You grew up at the Alpha Boys School…

Yeah man, Alpha Boys School

Who was there at the time you were there?

Well you had Dean Fraser, you have people like Leroy Smart, and many more.

While you were there, did you learn to play any instrument?

No, I never played any instrument. You know, I was just a vocalist.

In 1986, you had jaw cancer.

Yes.

Was it difficult for you to sing again after surgery?

It wasn’t difficult, you know. Matter of fact, right after I come out the hospital, I do a tour. So, it was okay. Thank God. God is good.

What is your main source of inspiration when it comes to writing songs?

Well, you know, people. People of all nation. People who do good things. And things that happen.Were you influenced by other artists that you may have heard in sound systems when you were younger?Oh well, many other artists. Because I used to listen to people like Burning Spear, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, Third World, Josey Wales, Charlie Chaplin, and many more.

John Wayne claims he was the originator of the “Zunguzunguzeng,” what do you think about that? 

Well, I don’t know about that.

How was the show tonight?

Very good.

Is this the first time you came to Rototom?

It’s my second time.

Where are you touring after Spain?

We’re gonna finish in America.

Are you working on any musical project now?

No, not now. Well, I just do my two songs with Slightly Stoopid, and Willy Davis.What do you think of politics in Jamaica?Well, you know, I don’t really think about politics. I just live my life. I don’t care about politics.Beenie Man claims he’s the king of the Dancehall, Vybz Kartel too, who do you think is the king of the Dancehall right now?Well don’t worry about that. King YellowMan, because I’m there, and I’m before them. And if it wasn’t me, they wouldn’t be there.