Keith Poppin's Latest Song "Africa Calling" Was Released July 1st

Like many of his contemporaries from the 1970s, Keith Poppin discovered the true story of Africa by reading voraciously about that continent and how it shaped civilization. The Motherland remains a source of inspiration for the Jamaican singer.

Keith PoppinHe wrote and produced Africa Calling, his latest song, which was released on July 1.

“It is inspired by the exploits and disadvantages taken of people around the world as it relates to the haves and the have nots. ⁠Africa is our motherland, so as an artist I speak to injustices that affect the nation,” Poppin explained.

The jocular Poppin earned his musical stripes working Jamaica’s bustling music scene during the 1970s, a prolific period for the roots-reggae artist. Same Thing For Breakfast and Envious, released during that era, are his most commercially-successful songs.

Poppin was born in Westmoreland, a parish in rural Jamaica known for its ties to the sugar and tourist industries. Moving to Kingston in the 1960s, he developed as an artist by hanging out at studios in downtown Kingston, Jamaica’s capital.

Those years at the famed Idler’s Rest put the edge on his writing, which is consistently driven by social issues.

“⁠Truths and rights always have a message of hope that mankind will put aside their differences and make the world a better place,” said Poppin.