Raging Fyah

Raging Fyah

Raging Fyah is a roots reggae group from Kingston, Jamaica. The band forms in 2006 and is active from 2010. Its members are Kumar, Conroy Willis, Demar Gayle, Anthony “Tony” Watson, Delroy “Pele” Hamilton and lead guitarist Cortland “Gizmo” White. Three of the members graduate from the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts.

Style and influences

The group works across a range of styles but mainly focuses on roots rock reggae. Its songs draw on the members’ own life experiences, their dreams and ambitions, and the changes they want to see. Their influences include Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Third World, Beres Hammond, Inner Circle and Maroon 5.

Background and development

The band begins as a trio called Inside-owt, formed by Demar Gayle, Anthony “Tony” Watson and Delroy “Pele” Hamilton at the Edna Manley College in 2002. Cortland “Gizmo” White and Conroy Willis join later, and the group takes the name Raging Fyah in 2005. The members come from musical families and grow up taking part in church music activities, which helps shape their playing and songwriting.

Performances and work

Raging Fyah performs both as a headline act and as a backing band. The group appears with Nelly Stharre at the St. Lucia Jazz Fest in 2006 and with Aluta Continua at Rototom Sunsplash in Italy. It also accompanies a range of reggae and dancehall artists. The band runs its own label, Raging Fyah Productions, and is part of the Jamaica Association of Authors and Composers (JCAP). It is managed and promoted by Jamyah International.

Members

Conroy Willis is the lead singer. Demar Gayle plays keyboard. Anthony “Tony” Watson plays drums. Delroy “Pele” Hamilton plays bass. Cortland “Gizmo” White plays lead guitar. Kumar is also listed as a member of the group.