Romain Rocks!

In 2007, at the age of seventeen, Romain Virgo won Digicel´s 'Rising Stars', a talent contest broadcasted on the Jamaican TV. Rightfully so it seems as he has been all over the Jamaican charts ever since. In 2010 we saw him perform live at Rototom Sunsplash in Spain as well as on a sound system at Civalizee´s Hotel Jamaica in Antwerp. Even back then we were already overwhelmed by his voice, the lyrics, his style and the overall finesse of his performance. In 2011 we saw him again in the Bounce tent at Reggae Geel.

After his TV win, he has been picked up by sound systems all over the world and his popularity is steadily increasing. Just like Tarrus Riley was also struggling to lift his career to the next level a few years back, Romain Virgo is now facing the same difficulties given the moderate turnout yesterday in the Ballroom of the Vooruit. Thanks to Democrazy, who again provided a stage for one of the most promising young Jamaican artists today. Big Up!

From the responses we´ve seen on social networks, we´ve learned that many reggae fans only seemed to know him from just one or two songs. In the light of positive education, we therefore posted an overview of Romain Virgo songs most reggae / dancehall fans should know. You can find the full list below this article as well. We can only recommend you to see the show the next time he´s around as it was grand.

We sadly missed the support act Loyal Flames. He´s an even younger and newer talent signed on the same Vikings Label as Romain Virgo who gave him a chance to perform on stage during his tour. Although he remains rather unknown in Europe, the reactions from the audience were very promising, especially during his best known song 'Mr. Death'.

Romain Virgo´s show however contained only one song we didn´t know. The energetic young artist performed every song like most high ranking artists do, with great diligence, extremely in tune, great timing and accompanied by a strong Jamaican backing band. His cover of Adele´s song 'Don´t you remember' was rock solid as well. Even those among the crowd who weren't really Adele fans nevertheless thought this was a great take on her song.

When it comes down to singing skills, Romain Virgo is definitely playing in the high league. Anyone who didn´t get goose bumps during his concert in Ghent should urgently consider a visit to the audiologist.

In addition to his strong singing skills he also showcased his dj and toasting talent. dj´s are the Jamaican equivalent of what we call MC's or rappers while the person playing the records is called a 'Selector'. This terminology might be confusing to the new generation out there but whatever you want to call it, Romain Virgo spit lyrics like it was his daily business.

All we can say is if you weren´t there, you missed a great show. Listen to his two albums and you´ll easily get convinced this youngster is here to stay.