Independent reggae-dancehall artist Kwame Ultimate returns with a heartfelt new single, “Say I Luv U,” released on January 30, 2026. Blending the warmth of reggae dancehall with the global pulse of Afrobeats, the track is a vibrant celebration of love in all its forms — and a timely reminder to express it now, not later. True to its message, “Say I Luv U” delivers the phrase “I love you” in nine different languages, reinforcing the song’s theme of connection without borders.
Written and produced by Kwame Ultimate himself, “Say I Luv U” was recorded and mixed in the UK at Kris Kemist’s Reality Shock Recording Studio in Reading. The song’s origins trace back to a 2023 holiday in Antalya, Turkey, where Kwame found inspiration while observing families, friends, and lovers sharing quiet moments in cable cars suspended above the mountains. The experience sparked a creative rush, and by the end of that night, the entire song had taken shape in his mind.
Back in the UK, Kwame brought the idea to life alongside his friend and co-producer Askell, the respected Jamaican musician and composer whose musical touch deepened the emotional weight of the record. The track is further elevated by expressive lead guitar work from Paul “WrongMove” Crossdale, a multiple Grammy-certified musician whose playing mirrors the sincerity and warmth at the heart of the song.
Kwame Ultimate is an independent reggae dancehall artist known for his lyrical depth and cultural grounding. He likens his craft to that of the ancient Alkebulan griots — storytellers who preserved history through music and word. Given the name Kwame during a visit to Ghana, his artistic identity reflects a deep connection to African and Caribbean heritage. Raised in Trench Town, West Kingston — the legendary birthplace of Jamaican music — Kwame’s journey mirrors that of his hero Bob Marley, blending conscious storytelling with global ambition.
A gifted writer from a young age, Kwame once pursued a path toward becoming a criminal lawyer before fully committing to music. His career has seen him win major Jamaican talent competitions, including Tastee, Bohemia, and the National Deejay Championships, tour the UK with London’s iconic Saxon Studio, and perform across Jamaica, including at Kingston’s historic Ward Theatre. He has shared stages with legends such as King Yellowman, Nadine Sutherland, Ziggy Marley & the Melody Makers, and opened for Akon at London’s Hammersmith Palais in 2005.
“Say I Luv U” marks the next chapter in Kwame Ultimate’s evolving journey and is set to appear on his forthcoming album I AM Reggae I AM Dancehall. His previous release, “I Am ReggaeMuzik,” continues to gain traction on Spotify and YouTube, signaling steady momentum. With this new single, Kwame Ultimate delivers a timeless message: love is universal, powerful, and meant to be spoken aloud. The official music video is scheduled for release in February 2026.
Influences: Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Supa Cat, Josey Wales, Tanya Stephens
Listen on all platforms here