J'Calm, Nigy Boy and Tony "CD" Kelly Deliver All The Feels on New Single "Emotions"
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The reggae-R&B fusion single drops today via K-Licious Music/DubShot Records, announcing a promising album for January 2026
The Jamaican reggae scene has just reached a new milestone with the release of "Emotions," an explosive collaboration between rising singer-songwriter J'Calm, dancehall sensation Nigy Boy, and legendary Grammy Award-winning producer Tony "CD" Kelly. Available now on all digital platforms, this single redefines the boundaries of contemporary Caribbean fusion.
A Masterful Reinvention of the Legendary Answer Riddim
"Emotions" is more than just a track—it's a bold generational bridge. Tony Kelly reimagines the iconic Answer Riddim, a foundational instrumental introduced by legendary producer Clement "Coxsone" Dodd in 1967 at Studio One. For nearly six decades, countless artists have laid their vocals over this musical bed that has become as emblematic of Jamaican culture as ackee and saltfish itself.
In this 2025 version, Kelly transforms this timeless classic into a vibrant modern production, where the reinvented bassline becomes the vehicle for raw emotional truth. The producer explains: "J'Calm and Nigy Boy represent an exciting new chapter in reggae and dancehall. Working on 'Emotions' has reminded me of some of my earliest memories in music production, working on riddims like the Bookshelf and Buy Out."
Two Emerging Talents Serving Authenticity
J'Calm, born Jovane Nathaniel Gayle, is only 20 years old but already possesses impressive artistic maturity. A native of Clarendon, Jamaica, this young artist skillfully fuses dancehall and R&B into a hybrid pop-R&B style, blending Patois with standard English. His journey has already been marked by a significant moment: his track "Tempted" was featured on Barack Obama's 2023 summer playlist.
For "Emotions," J'Calm delivers an assured vocal performance with melodic R&B phrasings that intertwine perfectly with Nigy Boy's more soulful approach. "This song is about discovering myself as an artist, knowing my identity and my vulnerability, and empathizing with someone who has mirrored my experience of self discovery," confides the young artist.
Nigy Boy (Nigel Hector Jr.), originally from Montego Bay, brings a particularly moving dimension to the project. Visually impaired, he developed his musical talents at the Salvation Army School for the Blind in Kingston. His international hits "Options" and "Continent" have already propelled his career, and his collaboration with J'Calm feels natural: "Working alongside J'Calm and Tony Kelly was a seamless process. I dare say, Tony is a wizard at what he does and he's a legend in the game. I'm really and truly honored to be a part of this collaboration."
A Captivating Music Video Shot in Jamaica
The official "Emotions" video, directed by Filmaica and filmed at various iconic locations in Jamaica, is also available now. The visuals capture the youthful intensity of both artists, their palpable passion creating a visceral connection with viewers. "The video tells a story that a lot of people will find very relatable," promises Nigy Boy.
L'album "Emotions" : des collaborations prestigieuses en perspective
This single is just the first glimpse of J'Calm's eponymous album, set for release on January 9, 2026. The full project promises to be exceptional, featuring major reggae figures like Ky-Mani Marley, Wayne Wonder, and Khalia. The album is already available for pre-save on all platforms.
Tony "CD" Kelly: The Architect of a New Era
One of Jamaica's most influential producers, Tony Kelly has shaped the sound of modern dancehall with legendary riddims like Bookshelf and Buy Out. For "Emotions," he collaborated with Lionel De La O to infuse an R&B touch into the classic Channel One aesthetic. "This track was built from an idea I have to resurrect the Channel One era of reggae and dancehall, but with a little R&B twist," he explains.
The result ? A track that vibrates with heat, honesty, and a rhythm so alive it feels like a heartbeat. "Emotions" isn't simply a song—it's a statement of intent from a new generation ready to carry reggae's legacy toward unexplored horizons while honoring its deepest roots.
The collaboration showcases how traditional reggae elements can be modernized without losing their essence. Kelly's production genius allows both young vocalists to flex their skills over an updated bassline that turns raw feeling into a rhythmic representation of reflection, connection, and emotional truth.
A Bridge Between Generations
What makes "Emotions" particularly special is how it connects Jamaica's musical past to its future. The Answer Riddim has been a cornerstone of reggae music since the late 1960s, with countless versions recorded over the decades. By choosing to work with this legendary instrumental, Kelly, J'Calm, and Nigy Boy are paying homage to the genre's pioneers while simultaneously pushing it forward.
"J'Calm came up with the hook so effortlessly, and when Nigy Boy jumped on, I knew it would be a hit," Kelly recalls. The chemistry between the two young artists is undeniable, with J'Calm's smooth melodic delivery complementing Nigy Boy's soulful edge perfectly.
Rising Stars with Inspiring Stories
Both J'Calm and Nigy Boy represent the new face of Jamaican music—talented, ambitious, and unafraid to blend genres. J'Calm's influences range from Bob Marley to Chris Brown and Michael Jackson, creating a unique sound that appeals to both reggae purists and contemporary R&B fans. His recognition by figures like Sean Paul and his inclusion on Obama's playlist demonstrate his growing impact.
Nigy Boy's story is equally inspiring. Despite being visually impaired, he has refused to let limitations define him. His early performances at The Salvation Army School for the Blind laid the foundation for an artistic journey that continues to inspire fans worldwide. His music resonates with uplifting lyrics and positive messages, proving that talent and determination can overcome any obstacle.
What's Next
With "Emotions" serving as both the debut single and title track of J'Calm's forthcoming album, expectations are high for the January 9th release. The inclusion of established artists like Ky-Mani Marley, Wayne Wonder, and Khalia alongside emerging talents like Nigy Boy suggests an album that will bridge multiple generations of reggae and dancehall music.
For fans eager to experience this new chapter in Caribbean music, "Emotions" is available now on all streaming platforms, with the official video on YouTube. The track represents everything that makes reggae music timeless: authentic emotion, masterful production, and the ability to evolve while staying true to its roots.
"Emotions" is available now on all streaming platforms. The album drops January 9, 2026 via K-Licious Music/DubShot Records.