Sly & Robbie ADD
The Mighty Rootsmen - Reggae Supergroup Reimagines Rock & Pop Hits
04/30/2025 by Press Release
“My intention was to try to do something that hadn’t been done in reggae before by putting these giants of the genre together to make a record that leaves you with good feelings."
The Mighty Rootsmen, a once-in-a-generation collaboration of reggae legends and some of Jamaica’s most respected artists—Toots Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs, Mykal Rose, Luciano, and the rhythm duo extraordinaire Sly & Robbie—will release their self-titled debut project July 25 on Bulletproof Recording Company.
The Mighty Rootsmen transforms beloved classics from iconic artists including Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, Steve Miller, Seals & Crofts, John Denver, Badfinger, and Cat Stevens into fresh reggae interpretations that honor the original song and Jamacia’s rich musical heritage. From the roots reggae grooves to the stirring vocal performances and top-tier musicianship, the album is a true cultural bridge. Featuring contributions from reggae guitarist Cat Coore of Third World, as well as Steve Miller and Mike Campbell, who bring subtle rock textures to the authentic sensibilities of some of Jamaica’s most distinctive voices and musicians.
Featuring a moving vocal from Toots Hibbert and guitar work by Mike Campbell, the first single, “I Won’t Back Down,” is now available [WATCH IT HERE]. The soulful reggae rendition stands as a tribute to resilience and unity and comes just after the original song’s 35th anniversary. The track honors the legacy of several members who contributed to the project before their passing, including Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs, Robbie Shakespeare, Mikey Chung, and Sticky Thompson.
Produced by acclaimed music visionary Ralph Sall (Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, Jane’s Addiction, George Clinton) and recorded at the legendary Anchor Studios in Kingston, Jamaica, with the renowned Word, Sound and Power band featuring Sly & Robbie, Mikey Chung, and Robbie Lyn, the idea for the project began during Sall’s earlier work with Jamaican musicians and grew into a project aimed at blending the spirit of roots reggae with enduring songs of hope and resilience.
Once the Mighty Rootsmen project was in its planning stages in 2009, Sall went straight to the top of the surviving reggae pantheon, securing the participation of Toots Hibbert of the Maytals, ‘Cool Ruler’ Gregory Isaacs and former Black Uhuru frontman Mykal Rose in a short space of time and when health issues unexpectedly forced Isaacs’ premature retirement, the rich tenor of Luciano brought another layer of excellence to the work. Each singer believed themselves to be at the centre of things, but the project was purely collaborative, with everyone afforded the same weight.
“This record is a celebration of life, legacy, and the unifying force of reggae,” says producer Ralph Sall. “It’s not just about honoring musical legends—it’s about bringing people together through the universal language of rhythm and soul,” offers Ralph Sall. “Each track is shaped by the distinctive voices of the featured singers and the organic, collaborative energy of the band, like the Traveling Wilburys of reggae”
THE MIGHTY ROOTSMEN - ALBUM TRACKLISTING
01. Toots Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs, Mykal Rose & Mike Campbell - I Won’t Back Down
02. Toots Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs & Luciano - Love The One You’re With
03. Toots Hibbert, Mykal Rose & Steve Miller - Fly Like An Eagle feat.
04. Toots Hibbert, Luciano & Mykal Rose - Peace Train
05. Toots Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs & Mykal Rose - Take It Easy
06. Toots Hibbert & Mykal Rose - Drift Away
07. Toots Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs & Mykal Rose - Summer Breeze
08. Toots Hibbert, Luciano & Mykal Rose - Don’t Stop
09. Toots Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs & Mykal Rose - Sunshine On My Shoulders
10. Toots Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs & Mykal Rose - Come And Get It
About Bulletproof Recording Company
Bulletproof Recording Company is an independent music label dedicated to producing genre-defying records with global impact. Known for its commitment to authenticity and innovation. Bulletproof champions unique artistic collaborations that bring new energy to classic sounds. The label has a track record of releasing projects that bridge generations and genres, always with a focus on musical integrity and cultural relevance.
About Ralph Sall
Ralph Sall is a Los Angeles-based producer, composer, and music supervisor whose work spans film, television, and critically acclaimed music releases. He has collaborated with an eclectic array of artists, including Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, Jane’s Addiction, George Clinton, and The Ramones. Known for his visionary approach and ability to unite iconic voices across genres, Sall’s productions celebrate musical heritage while pushing creative boundaries.
'I WON'T BACK DOWN' - WATCH & LISTEN:
