Blvk H3ro, one of Jamaica’s most innovative musical forces, has once again pushed the envelope by teaming up with acclaimed producer Glassface [known for collaborations with Lil Yachty, Kid Cudi, Ms. Lauryn Hill]. Their new Dancehall-Electronic anthem ‘Active’ has set the stage for a fresh wave in electro-dancehall. With their forthcoming collaborative EP, due out on November 1st, Blvk H3ro and Glassface promise to drop a new track each Friday, evolving the soundscape with each release and reinforcing Blvk H3ro’s status as a true trailblazer in the music world.
In a recent chat with Niji, Blvk H3ro shared his ‘5 Most Inspiring Tracks from Black Artists’, paying homage to the voices and sounds that have shaped his own journey and legacy. Here’s an intimate look at his picks and what they mean to him.
1. ‘Superstition’ by Stevie Wonder
“When you believe in things that you don’t understand, then you suffer. Superstition ain’t the way.”
Blvk H3ro reflects, “For me, this song taught that you have to experience things for yourself to truly understand life. It’s a reminder to study and know the ins and outs of whatever you’re doing – or suffer the cost.”
2. ‘Sweet Love’ by Anita Baker
“The entire chorus”
“The first time I heard this song as a youth, it hit me instantly. It’s like the sonic embodiment of Black love and passion,” Blvk H3ro recalls. “Her vocal texture and energy capture the raw passion of Black culture. I’ve always wanted someone to sing about me that way – pure, unfiltered love.”
3. ‘Sun Is Shining’ by Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer
“See the morning sun on that hillside. Not living good? You better travel wide.”
“This hits me personally. It’s about keeping pure intentions around you,” Blvk H3ro explains. “If you’re not coming with good vibes, keep your distance, and I’ll do the same.”
4. ‘Solomonic Chronic’ by Vybz Kartel
“So Solomonic is the chronic, supersonic, supersonic. Have mi speaking in Islamic, hieroglyphics, and Slavonic.”
“This line is genius. It’s the best bar I’ve heard about the herb I love. Kartel’s work will be studied for generations.”
5. ‘They Don’t Really Care About Us’ by Michael Jackson
“Beat me, hate me, you can never break me. Will me, thrill me, you can never kill me.”
“This is my journey, especially in music,” Blvk H3ro says. “Life constantly challenges us, trying to drain us, but I’ve found resilience through it all, like a superpower. Jah’s given me strength; I’m unstoppable now.”
Known for redefining reggae with a modern touch, Blvk H3ro (pronounced “Black Hero”) has collaborated with iconic names like Skillibeng, Bunny Wailer, Stonebwoy, Teejay, and Kojo Funds. Grammy-nominated and a staple in ad campaigns for brands like Carhartt, Clarks, Karl Kani, Levi’s, and The Elder Statesman, Blvk H3ro continues to build an expansive sound that blends reggae, dancehall, and afrobeats into an unforgettable experience. His debut album On A Mission garnered widespread acclaim, and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has praised his track “It Nuh Easy” for its positive impact on youth.
Blvk H3ro’s latest collaborative project, ‘Active EP,’ is available now via all major streaming platforms.
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