British-Jamaican reggae singer Askala Selassie, widely known as the Warrior Empress of Reggae, delivers a deeply heartfelt tribute to the African continent with her latest single, “Welcome to Africa,” released on 25th April 2025.
More than just a song, it’s an invitation, a musical homecoming drenched in warmth, pride, and cultural reverence.
Inspired by her transformative visit to Cape Town, South Africa, “Welcome to Africa” is the sound of discovery and connection. Askala was moved by the breathtaking scenery, the heritage of the land, and the spirit of the people.
“Standing on Table Mountain and looking over the land, I felt like Africa was singing to me,” she recalls. That moment sparked the beginning of what would become her most personal and culturally rich project to date.
Crafted with Royal Reggae Roots
To bring the sound of Africa to life, Askala teamed up with Jazzwad Paul Yebuah, a Grammy-winning reggae producer known for his work with Damian Marley and Garnet Silk. Together, they created a powerful riddim rooted in traditional reggae, with a warm, infectious groove designed to carry the weight of the song’s message.
Yet, Askala’s vision extended beyond the first recording session. Feeling something was still missing, she took full control of the production process.
She added a fresh bassline, live electric guitar, additional percussion, and vibrant backing vocals, stepping boldly into the role of producer for the first time in her career. The result is a track that blends traditional reggae rhythms with a modern, uplifting energy, one that truly reflects her love for Africa.
Mixed by Christian Cowlin, longtime engineer for The Wailers, the final product is polished and powerful. The song’s chorus references “Azania,” a historical name for South Africa used by its indigenous people, symbolising freedom, identity, and resistance. This lyrical inclusion reflects Askala’s deep respect for the continent’s history and its people.
A Voice of Her Generation
Askala Selassie’s musical journey is as dynamic as her voice. Discovered at just 21 years old after a powerful live performance, she was recruited to tour with The Wailers, becoming the youngest ever “Wailing Sister.” She has since shared stages with reggae legends such as Chronixx, Sugar Minott, Rita Marley, and Beres Hammond, earning her a well-deserved place among reggae’s rising voices.
Her 2016 debut album, Warrior Empress, received glowing reviews and even a Grammy nod, while her 2023 singles “Survivor” and “Rise and Shine” further solidified her message of empowerment and resilience. But it was her Mama Africa Awaits tour in South Africa that left a lasting impact on both her artistry and her identity.
A Global Message Wrapped in Reggae Harmony
“Welcome to Africa” is more than a personal love letter to the continent, it’s an open-armed invitation to people across the globe to appreciate, respect, and embrace Africa’s diverse cultures. Through soulful melodies, uplifting lyrics, and powerful instrumentation, Askala champions the beauty, resilience, and richness of her ancestral roots.
Listeners can feel the genuine passion in her voice as she gives shout-outs to all African nations, highlighting not only unity but pride in heritage. Her ability to blend reggae with Afrocentric themes, guided by influences such as Bob Marley, Lauryn Hill, and Missy Elliott, gives her work a unique cross-genre depth.
With “Welcome to Africa,” Askala Selassie delivers a radiant celebration of identity, belonging, and culture. It’s a song that dances with the rhythm of the land and sings with the heart of the people. Honest, empowering, and musically rich, this self-produced single not only reflects her evolution as an artist but reaffirms her role as a global ambassador of modern reggae. In a time when authentic representation matters more than ever, Askala’s voice is both timely and timeless.