don hartley

The Gospel Rootsman
On the Road to Emmaus
A journey of revelation
and renewal

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Bio

Don Hartley is a distinguished reggae artist renowned for his unique fusion of Pan-African ideals and traditional Christian spirituality with the timeless rhythms of roots reggae.Over a career spanning more than three decades, Hartley has captivated audiences worldwide with profound lyrics drawn from his unique worldview. His journey began in 1990 with the release of his debut 7” single, That Lady, setting the stage for a career dedicated to spreading messages of faith, hope, and redemption.From 2001 to 2005, he collaborated with the renowned roots reggae collective Nucleus Roots, producing anthems like Run Come Quick, Deep Roots, and Irie Meditation, which became classics within the genre.Hartley’s musical journey presently reflects his personal transformation—from Rastafari back to the Christian faith of his childhood. Earlier songs like Deep Roots, Irie Meditation and Step it Up Rasta embody the Rastafarian beliefs he once held, while newer works such as Everybody Should Know (Who Jesus Is) and The Third Day mark his return to his Christian roots.New audiences should therefore be aware and understand that while his older works remain part of his story, his mission today is to challenge those past perspectives and reaffirm his faith in Christ.In the years since Nucleus Roots, Hartley has worked with producers like Mad & Dread, MessenJah Music, Roll & Record, Faya Dub, and Lewis Bennett Dubs, consistently releasing music that speaks to the human condition through the lens of faith. His unwavering commitment to his craft and message has earned him a respected place in both the reggae community and among spiritual music enthusiasts.Hartley has graced stages both intimate and grand, performing at venues such as Band on the Wall, Club Sauvage in Paris, and reggae hotspots like Hootananny in London, Manchester Carnival, and the Preston Reggae Festival. His dynamic stage presence and deep connection with audiences make his live performances unforgettable experiences that capture the true spirit of roots reggae.Don Hartley’s music is a journey of faith, love, and resilience—a testament to the enduring power of reggae and the abiding spirit of African heritage. Explore his music on Bandcamp or your preferred digital platform, and experience the fusion of music and spirituality that defines his sound.As he looks to the future, Don’s mission remains clear: to use the power of reggae to spread messages of love, faith, and understanding—challenging perspectives, strengthening faith and defending truth—leading souls to Christ.

Press

Veteran Roots artist Don Hartley has been a staple on the conscious Reggae scene for over three decades. Now, he’s back with another superb release – following on from his recent EP Song Of Creation and also cuts reviewed here on Pauzeradio: The Third Day and Black Moses.Word You Speak, released via Don Hartley Music and mixed and mastered by Mighty Drop Productions in Portugal, sees Hartley at his very best: discussing his faith and how it interacts with his everyday life across a classic Roots cut – but with a delicious touch or two. The arrangement by Hartley and production comes from his fellow musician and Twelve Tribe brother, Elston Benji, the track is classic in its composition. -- Mr Topple for Pauzeradio.com

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Since Hartley released his very first lovers rock single 'That Lady' in 1990, he has continued to work tirelessly. In our country, some may know him as a singer through the contributions he made at the beginning of this century on the Nucleus Roots label from Manchester in the United Kingdom...Successful collaboration between Don Hartley and I-niverse and an EP that is definitely worth discovering and listening to. -- Ras Mundele, Reggae.be

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