Some people were born into music. For E.N. Young, the sweet sound of roots reggae surrounded him. Listening to the crackling vinyl of roots legends, the California native took those influences and created a robust reggae career for himself. He is not only an artist with multiple records and tours under his belt, but also a go-to producer having worked with the likes of Tribal Seeds.
We caught up with E.N. as he gets ready to perform at Jams on the Sand in Asbury Park, New Jersey tonight. We talked about his influences, new music, producing vs. performing and more.
Who are your musical inspirations — both in your professional, and your person life?
From a young age roots reggae music had a huge influence on my life. I grew up listening to Jamaican artist like Johnny Clarke, Burning Spear, Israel Vibrations and many, many more. Recently, I have found that I’m taking all the positive energy around me especially from nature and bringing it to my music. So I think my world around me is shaping my live show and my recent recordings.
Your last full length record, Forest Wilderness, came out in 2018. Is there new music on the horizon for you?
Yes, I have five new songs recorded but not finished so after this tour I plan on getting together a new album for 2020. Since the recording of Forest Wilderness I have felt very fluid recording in the studio and writing songs. This is the new energy that I feel will continue and help me sharpen my sword.
Your studio, Imperial Sound Recording Studio, opened in 2013. Can you talk about what makes this studio not only unique, but why it’s become a destination for artists such as Tribal Seeds and Hirie?
Many artists and bands have came to me over the past decade to produce reggae music. I have worked either mobile or out of my Imperial Sound Recording Studio with people from all over the world. Honestly, it’s been an incredible experience and the experience has been the greatest teacher to me mastering this skill. I know how it is from an artist perspective so I work with people with that in mind. I work very quickly with high-quality and give people exactly what they are looking for. I think for these reasons my producing has been very successful. I’m so grateful for the experience.
Talk about your producing style. What do you think you bring to the table on the boards and behind the glass that bands, like the ones mentioned above, have sought out?
I bring a modern twist on the original Jamaican sound with engineers such as King Tubby, scientist, Mad Professor On the front lines of the original Reggae Sound. Many artist love this sound and would like to reproduce it. I am definitely also one those artists who love roots reggae vibes.
What do you prefer — producing or performing?
I really love both producing and performing. Performing is definitely more exciting for me but producing I think gives a foundation to a live show like a product that backs a particular sounding and quality. I really feel both are necessary for my output as an artist. And they really have been enjoying both sides along my road.
You’ll be performing literally in front of the Atlantic Ocean at Jams on the Sand which is a pretty unique venue. What’s some of the more unique or unusual spots you’ve performed at?
Yes I’m so happy to play at Asbury Park. It is a beautiful location I have been there once before and it’s incredible. Really looking forward to it. I have played some incredible places all across the US and hoping to see many more.
What is it about reggae, particularly roots reggae, that has inspired you to dedicating your life to performing and producing this style of music?
Reggae is like a flower that grew out of the concrete. It has a spiritual foundation which really resonated with me at a young age and stays with me today. The pulse of the drum and bass, and rhythm section combined with beautiful melodic leads and vocals takes music to a high level.
What are you most excited for, musically, in 2019?
2019 I’m excited to continue on this tour and link up with some beautiful people around this country and then get back in the studio feeling inspired and lay down the new album! Grateful for all the music and vibes to come! Check all the music out at E.N Young and RootsMusician.com. Blessings and love.
