Wesrok and Big Mountain Unite for a Heartfelt Anthem: "True Love"
Emerging reggae sensation Wesrok, known offstage as Percival Buddan, has recently made waves in the music scene with his latest collaboration alongside the iconic American reggae band Big Mountain. Their new single, "True Love," is not just another track; it’s a heartfelt message that resonates deeply in today’s world.
The buzz surrounding "True Love" is palpable, especially with its vibrant music video shot in the picturesque landscapes of Mexico. The visuals capture the essence of the countryside, showcasing wide-open rural spaces, majestic mountains, and breathtaking badlands that stretch endlessly to the horizon. It’s a feast for the eyes, perfectly complementing the song’s uplifting message.
Wesrok passionately shares, “The song says it all. Love is the answer to a world that is lost and full of hate. Only Jah love can save us.” His words reflect a profound understanding of the human experience, emphasizing that love is often taken for granted. “There is nothing greater than Jah love, that brotherhood, and love for humanity,” he adds, reminding us of the power of unity in these challenging times.
The journey to creating "True Love" began last year when Wesrok was introduced to Big Mountain’s lead singer, Joaquin McWhinney, by promoter-producer Don Hines. “He asked me to send him an original song. He was thrilled about it, and we agreed to collaborate,” Wesrok recalls. The partnership blossomed, leading them to work with a talented producer in Mexico to bring their vision to life.
Big Mountain’s frontman, Joaquin ‘Quino’ McWhinney, shares his excitement about the project. “We shot the video in Ensenada. We had to wake up very early in the morning to take advantage of the morning sunrise and light. It was a lot of fun,” he says, highlighting the camaraderie and joy that infused the project. Quino, who carries a rich heritage of Mexican and Irish roots, has high hopes for the single. “The response has been very positive. The production is well arranged, and the vocal performances are dramatic and soulful,” he notes.
A Glimpse into Big Mountain’s Legacy
Big Mountain is no stranger to the music scene, best known for their unforgettable remake of Peter Frampton’s "Baby, I Love Your Way." Released in 1994, the song soared to number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 and topped charts worldwide. Quino reflects on the success, stating, “It was a well-produced song with a catchy chorus, released at a time when reggae music was finally becoming accepted on mainstream radio.”
Quino’s journey into music began in 1984 when he joined the band Shiloh. His passion for reggae ignited after watching a documentary about Bob Marley and Rastafari. The band later rebranded as Big Mountain in 1991, making waves at Reggae Sunsplash in the mid-’90s. After a decade of touring, they took a break in 2005, only to reunite in 2013 with a fresh lineup.
In 2016, Big Mountain released "Perfect Summer," their first album in 14 years, marking a triumphant return to the music scene. As they gear up for a tour in the Philippines this March and April, the excitement continues to build around their music and collaborations.
Wesrok and Big Mountain’s "True Love" is more than just a song; it’s a reminder of the power of love in a world that often feels divided. As the reggae rhythms resonate, one can’t help but wonder: will love truly be the answer we’ve all been searching for?
