Jamaican singer and songwriter Barrington Levy weaves an important message into an infectious beat in his latest single, “Money is the Drug.” The dancehall and reggae-inspired beat moves listeners within the first minute, bringing them along for a musical journey.
Clad in a flashy suit and fedora, Barrington Levy serenades his listeners in the accompanying video for “Money is the Drug.” The eye-catching video emphasizes Levy’s thoughtful lyricism.
According to the artist, the single was inspired by a moment of disbelief. “It started out with somebody doing something that I’m like—'seriously?! That’s what you do for money?’ My producer and I then tried to make a song based off real life.”
“The song is based on the way the world is going. People are losing their morals, especially ladies. People do crazy things for money,” adds Levy. “I want listeners to know that money is an illusion. Do not do anything to achieve it. I’m not saying to not make money—make money but make it in a positive way. Don’t do anything to get it that’s not right.”
Barrington Levy is no stranger to spreading truth through music. Born in Jamaica in the 60s, Barrington Levy’s career spans decades. He has come to be known as an icon of the reggae and dancehall genres, leaving his own mark on the music industry while sharing Jamaican culture with the world. Levy’s commitment to music began at age 14, when he began performing at nearby dancehalls and talent shows.
Shortly after wowing producers, he released his debut single, “A Long Time Since We Don’t Have No Love.” His 1978 single, “Collie Weed,” garnered the national and international recognition to start his lifelong career. Barrington Levy continued producing chart toppers throughout the 80s. Levy connected with audiences through his songs of love, social issues, and cultural consciousness.
His love of music is what keeps Levy going decade after decade. “Music saved me in a lot of ways,” shares the artist. “I was raised in a ghetto area of Kingston. What moved me from that level to another part of the world was music.”
With decades of musical experience behind him, Barrington Levy shares his perspective of the music industry. “Music business nowadays is not telling people what to write. Nowadays, music is absolutely immoral. People are doing anything to go viral. And that’s not what music business is about—at least not reggae music. It’s about showing people where they are going and being positive.”
“Money is the Drug” is Barrington Levy’s first single from his upcoming album, due for a January 2024 release. “I’m putting my everything in this album,” shares Levy. “The album is going to be very spiritual, about my spiritual journey. Tomorrow is another day. Keep praying. Remember that God is not sleeping—he never sleeps.”
The artist will also begin touring for the album in 2024. “When I go and sing on stage and watch people singing my song word for word—that is everything.”
Make sure to stay connected to Barrington Levy on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts.
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