Marijah is a multi talented, singer, songwriter and percussionist whose dynamic performance is both energizing, passionate and soul stirring! Singing since the age of five and drumming since her late teens, she is equally gifted in both arenas, and her versatility enables her to fit in with any group of musicians performing everything from Reggae, R&B, Jazz, African & World music.
Born in Newark, New Jersey, Marijah has transformed her urban background and world travels into a truly special roots sound and feeling, one that reminds her audience that rhythm transcends color. She is a creator, not an imitator, and has composed a library of over 100 songs that both inspire and uplift the listener. You will be captivated by her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, as she sings about truth, love, life and peace. Marijah's music is timeless, and always delivers a message, has a funky beat, as well as a beautiful melody!
Initially self-taught on traditional percussion, she went on to study West African, Afro-Cuban and Jamaican rhythms and is known by drummers from Jamaica to Hawaii as the "High Priestess of Percussion". She studied under the late drum master, Babatunde Olatunji of Nigeria, West Africa, and plays on his albums, "Dance to the Beat of My drum, and "Drums and Incantations". Marijah has also studied and performed with: Nyabinghi Master Ras Michael of Jamaica and Carlos Santana. Marijah plays: Congas, Djembe Shekere, Repeater, Trap Drums, Kalaimba, and various other international and native percussion instruments. Currently, Marijah performs with the all female African drum and dance ensemble ~~Venus Rising".
Marijah has toured extensively, sharing her music in different parts of the world. She lived in Jamaica and played alongside, and recorded with many Reggae greats such as Ras Michael at Reggae Suns plash, Marcia Griffits, and Judy Mowatt. She has also toured Jamaica with her three woman singing group "Harmony Girls". Marijah lived in Belize and played with the indigenous "Turtle Shell Band", as well as touring France and recording an album with African Reggae Star "Binghi". In addition she has recorded with Brazilian recording artists Aierto and Flora Purim.
Marijah's first solo album, "Supreme Love", showcased five of her original songs. This album was reviewed by Beat Magazine:, Vol. 11 #31992 as an excellent first album from Marijah".
Her second release "Spirit of a Woman" contains thirteen original, and two cover songs, and displays the songwriting ability, along with the passionately beautiful voice of this REGGAE QUEEN, as she enlightens your mind, and makes you dance at the same time! "Guide Me Jah ", from this album won critical acclaim from the late great Clint O'Neil's top 50 Reggae songs of the year on WLRN in Miami Florida.
Marijah’s newest release "Mystic Angel" is now here. This first single from this CD "Pray for the World", is getting enthusiastic response from airplay in N.Y., Florida, and Calif.
Marijah is presently living in Lake Worth, Florida and is performing both locally and nationally to the beat of her own drum as the spirit of this woman warms your heart and soul! In addition to her busy schedule, she teaches drumming to children in the Palm Beach County School District, and is also available to do workshops and private lessons.
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