www.ijamusic.com. With the dawn of the new millennium must come an awakening message for the earth, and Ija has arrived scroll in hand to deliver it. He speaks to the whole of humanity in the international language of music with a voice that is guided by a greater spirit. The time has come for this message to be heard.
Born Roger Robert Valdez in Trinidad West Indies, Ija has been blessed with a colorful cultural background that enriches his music. He carries within him the rhythm of West Indian, African, and American pop music; and he integrates these rhythms to create songs that are wholly his own. A self-taught musician, he has broken the boundaries of musical excellence through his dedication for perfection. A musician of his caliber does not come along every day. Not only is he gifted with a deep understanding of music, but also the richness of his voice captivates all who hear his sound. He is a natural performer with a magnetic charisma that energizes the audience and illuminates the stage.
It all started when in 1998, his mother purchased an acoustic guitar for him as a gift at the age of 27. He then learned a few chords from his father and started playing incessantly. During this time he spent much of his twenties hanging out and dancing at Miami reggae hot spots and music concerts, experiencing, and drawing energy from the “live music” scene. Later he claimed that he had a vision/message that was revealed to him through Divine inspiration, and so he wrote his first song “Apocalypse Century.” Coming from a Christian background and being well versed in the scriptures, Roger had already engulfed himself with different faiths, searching out what it means to be Human. The visions didn’t stop here, so he started writing more songs based on this pivotal introduction to what life would be like during the world’s Apocalyptic last days; portrayed in the bible book of Revelation. He was nicknamed Ija from a close confidant during this time and was already beginning to develop an artistic persona, who draws people to him with his positive vibrant energy and irresistible smile. His inner passion and love for people has developed him to become an amazing producer and singer/songwriter; also an incredible dancer with impeccable timing, and a lust for Perfection.
Ija has written and produced his own music, recording at some of South Florida’s major recording studios such as The Hit Factory Criteria, The Studio Center, SoundBox Studio, Audiovision, and Spectrum Studio. His creativity, talent, and passion are evidenced by his lyrics. In 1998 he started recording the title track ”Apocalypse Century” when he met Steve Cuiffo, owner of The Studio Center Miami, who recognized his potential and started him off on the journey to orchestrate the album he calls ”The Apocalypse Project.” In time he worked with over 25 talented musicians to help create his sound. Among these, producer/engineer Kenroy “Yahbreze” Archibald, and Criteria Studio engineer Dave Poler. Wilburn “Squidly” Cole, Chris Meredith, Dave Simmons, and Franklyn Waul; All whom have worked with renowned artists such as Ziggy Marley/Marley family and Lauryn Hill. Stephen Lashley from KC and The Sunshine Band, and percussionist Richard Bravo who has worked for Latin artists such as Gloria Estefan, Shakira, and Enrique Iglesias. In 2003, he met SoundBox engineer Chris Monteleone with only half the album recorded. Chris, an award winning recording engineer and lead singer/songwriter for the band Sosos, became his dear friend and musical mentor. Together with Josh Foster, Dean Fishback, and guitarist Chad Moye, he started his production team, which he now calls Rajaman Muzik Productions, producing and writing music for other artists under Chris’s independent label SoundBox Records.
The Apocalypse Project, Ija's first studio effort, is a collection of 12 songs with a variety of themes and sounds that unite into one harmonious whole. When heard separately, each song is unique, but when experienced collectively, the album resounds with a compelling message for the people - a message that reflects the sign of the times.
Inspired by the Book of Revelation, "Apocalypse Century" is a powerful and melodic arrangement with a hard-hitting reggae beat. It awakens in us the reality of the suffering and tribulations of the world and evokes our faith to overcome these struggles. "Moonlight Lady" is a multi layered account about the struggle of the inner woman. "Give Thanks And Praise" presents a modern day variation of ecclesiastical writings. The nightlife culture of pleasure-seeking partyers is embraced in "Midnight Madness." "Cry Freedom" is an offering to Native Americans in recognition of their long struggle for freedom. "From Here To Zion" is a hopeful song looking forward to a brighter future in God's new world. "She Wants To Be Free" contributes essential elements to the album's expression and reveals the yearnings of the human heart. The existing cry for "Peace And Security" is depicted in this insightful song of the same name. "Babylon Stories" questions who will fulfill our need for leadership and change. The compelling pulse in "Believe" encourages us to throw out all negativity. "A Good Friend Is Hard To Find," featuring Inervolt MC, also known as El Faraon from the meta-hop-reggaeton band Tercera Vizion, has universal appeal. "Remember The Good Times” reflect the fun yet complex emotions of relationships.
Today we are living amidst a spiritual revolution unlike any the world has ever seen. In such times, people strive for clarity in their lives as they seek a new direction. Ija has chosen to take up the musical rod and staff to lead the people into a new renaissance.
Copyright 2006 Rajaman Muzik Productions/SoundBox Recordings. www.ijamusic.com
Read more...