How to Hire SOJA For Your Event!
Soldiers of Jah Army
Members:
Jacob Hemphill, Bob Jefferson, Ryan “Byrd” Berty, Ken Brownell, Patrick O’Shea, and others
Based in: Virginia
Based in: Arlington
Hire: SOJA
Formation and Early Years (1997–2002)
GRAMMY award-winning SOJA (Soldiers of Jah Army) is an American reggae band formed in Arlington, Virginia, in 1997. The founding members, Jacob Hemphill (lead vocals, guitar) and Bobby Lee Jefferson (bass), met in middle school and bonded over a shared love for reggae music, particularly Bob Marley. The duo later recruited other members, including Ryan Berty (drums), Patrick O’Shea (keyboards), and Ken Brownell (percussion), to complete the lineup. SOJA’s early music was heavily influenced by classic reggae, incorporating socially conscious lyrics and themes of unity, love, and spirituality.
Debut Album and Rise in Popularity (2002–2009)
SOJA released their debut album, Peace in a Time of War, in 2002. The album resonated with fans of reggae and socially conscious music, earning the band a growing fanbase. Their live performances, marked by high-energy and heartfelt messages, further boosted their popularity. The follow-up release, Get Wiser (2006), solidified their presence in the reggae world, featuring tracks like “Open My Eyes” and “Devils.” The album also showcased their ability to blend reggae with elements of rock, dub, and hip-hop.
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Mainstream Breakthrough and International Success (2010–2015)
The release of Born in Babylon in 2009 marked a turning point for SOJA, as they began to receive international recognition. Their 2012 album, Strength to Survive, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. Inspired by Bob Marley’s Survival album, Strength to Survive emphasized themes of environmental preservation, global unity, and social justice. Tracks like “Not Done Yet” and “Gone Today” became fan favorites.
Their 2014 album, Amid the Noise and Haste, earned SOJA their first Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album. Produced by Supa Dups and featuring collaborations with Damian Marley, Collie Buddz, and J Boog, the album further expanded their sound and reach.
Continued Evolution and Grammy Win (2016–2021)
In the following years, SOJA continued to tour extensively, performing at major festivals like Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, and Reggae Sumfest. Their 2017 album, Poetry in Motion, highlighted personal growth and reflections on life, blending reggae with acoustic and soulful melodies.
SOJA achieved a career milestone in 2022 when their album Beauty in the Silence won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album. The project featured tracks like “Something To Believe In” (featuring Stick Figure) and collaborations with UB40 and Slightly Stoopid, further emphasizing the band’s ability to unite genres and global audiences.
Musical Style and Influences
SOJA’s music combines traditional reggae rhythms with elements of rock, hip-hop, and acoustic folk. Their lyrics often explore themes such as love, social justice, environmentalism, and self-discovery. Jacob Hemphill’s introspective songwriting and the band’s tight instrumentation have earned them a reputation for creating music that resonates emotionally and spiritually with listeners.
Impact and Legacy
With over two decades in the music industry, SOJA has become one of the most influential American reggae bands. They have inspired a new generation of reggae artists and expanded the genre’s global appeal. Known for their activism, the band often uses their platform to raise awareness about social and environmental issues.
Discography Highlights
- Peace in a Time of War (2002)
- Get Wiser (2006)
- Born in Babylon (2009)
- Strength to Survive (2012)
- Amid the Noise and Haste (2014)
- Poetry in Motion (2017)
- Beauty in the Silence (2021)
Awards and Accolades
- Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album (Beauty in the Silence, 2022)
- Multiple Billboard Reggae Albums chart-topping releases
- Renowned for live performances and international tours
SOJA remains a powerhouse in the reggae world, consistently delivering music that uplifts and unites listeners across the globe.
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