Roland Kemokai
Austin
Roland Kemokai, also known as “Mista Muzic," is an Austin-based singer-songwriter, composer, and producer, who is the energetic lead singer for the roots reggae band, Roland & the Roots Riddim.
Born in Liberia, West Africa, Roland had a difficult childhood, and after being abandoned by his parents, struggled with poverty, abuse, and civil war in his home country. His musical journey began at just six years of age, when he would make his own instruments and play the log drum for his local village. Crediting his love for music as the key to his survival, Roland said, “Music was my first love. When bullets were flying in the streets of Monrovia, taking lives at random, my three-stringed guitar became my best friend and deepest comfort.”
After graduating as valedictorian of his class in Liberia, Roland moved to America to continue his studies, where he earned an Associate and Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts from the Gardner-Webb University. While in America, Roland was exposed to a vast range of musical styles during his time as an award-winning, syndicated radio DJ, which when mixed with his African roots, resulted in him crafting a unique sound that reflects an upbeat, introspective, and positive vibe.
Influenced by musical greats such as Al Green, Bob Marley, Lucky Dube, Alpha Blondy, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, and Ray Charles, Roland’s music, which is inspired by his own challenging start in life, focuses on his belief in the power of forgiveness, positive thinking, and the potential for greatness within us all. His electrifying stage presence, coupled with his inspiring messages, and melodic vocals, allows him to truly connect with his audience.
Roland’s latest release is a 12 track Reggae album titled, “Set My Spirit Free”. Composed, arranged, produced, and performed by Roland, this labor of love draws on rich African cultural influences, lush ambience, beautiful melodies, catchy rhythms, and uplifting, conscious messages to deliver an amazing experience that is both entertaining and inspiring.
A 12-Song Album and a secret Bonus track, "Set My Spirit Free" is Roland 'Mista Muzic' Kemokai's best musical work yet. After a personal healing journey to his home country, Liberia, Roland released an instrumental album, "Acoustic Sensations," followed by several released Singles.
Since moving to Austin, Texas, this dedicated multi-instrumental musician, composer, singer, song writer, performer and producer has been busy, constantly working at his craft - both in the studio and live with his band. It is from this resevoir of artistic muses and experiences that Roland 'Mista Muzic' Kemokai brings us his latest album.
No matter what one's background is, "Set My Spirit Free" is truly a relatable musical experience that entertains and inspires.
In addition to being an engaging front-man, a powerful singer, and a multi-instrumentalist, Roland is also a published author [SUNUMA], and an in-demand empowerment and motivational speaker.
Stay tuned for more albums and singles from Roland 'Mista Muzic' Kemokai.
Roland 'Mista Muzic' Kemokai’s tracks
published on
published on
published on
published on
published on
published on
published on
published on
published on