Tarrus Riley, Live at J&R Music World as “Contagious” Drops

Tarrus Riley comes to J&R Music World (directions) Tuesday, August 4th for a 12:30 pm in-store performance, after which he will sign copies of his new album, Contagious.

The secret to the success of Tarrus Riley, believe it or not, is quite simple - “when preparation meets opportunity”, stated a self-assured Riley. “I’ve been surrounded by music all my life. My father is a singer and my mother is a bathroom singer”, he explains with a chuckle. “Because I can’t change the world, I sing for the people - this is the contribution I can make and after I make a song; it isn’t even mine anymore; it belongs to the people.”

Virtually born and steeped in music, Tarrus Riley has learnt a lot by merely being in the environment of the music business. He caught on very quickly and so “voiced my first song at the age of 13″. “I’ve always loved music; I used to deejay but everyone used to encourage me to sing. They used to call me “Singy Singy” ’cause I’m always singing,” he said with a introspective smile. In 2004, Tarrus released his debut album, Challenges.

Tarrus successfully released his sophomore album, Parables, in 2006 to widespread acclaim and spawned hit singles - “Stay With You”, “Beware”, “She’s Royal”, “Lion Paw”, among others.

“I make thought-provoking music about Black consciousness and experiences. I want to open people’s minds and let them think. My music isn’t prejudiced towards colour, class, creed or nationality,” he explained passionately. “I target women and children with my music because slavery tampered with the woman’s mind and that’s why I wrote She’s Royal. She’s the head of the household so she has the power to influence the young men and women of tomorrow,” he further explained.

Serving up “brain food” with his third album, Contagious, Tarrus is extremely excited. “I want everyone to catch this album - it better than flu,” he said with a chuckle. “What we do is Contagious; I believe it’s a good word.”

Songs, such as “Start Anew” and “Good Girl Gone Bad” (featuring Konshens) from the album, are currently receiving tremendous airplay and ratings in the streets.

Tarrus Riley Official Website tarrusriley.com

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