Biography
Addis Pablo, born on August 18, 1989, in Redbank, New Jersey, is a Jamaican reggae musician renowned for his mastery of the melodica, following directly in the footsteps of his father, the legendary Augustus Pablo (Horace Swaby). Raised in Jamaica at his father's home, Addis was immersed in music from an early age, receiving a melodica at three years old and growing up surrounded by reggae luminaries. He learned piano, some guitar, hand drums, and computer technology, developing a deep connection to the instrument that defined his father's innovative 'Far East' sound blending minor key motifs, dub textures, and spiritual resonance[1][2][8].
Addis began performing live in bands with veteran musicians like Chinna Smith and Style Scott, initially tributing his father's classics such as 'Java' before releasing his own material. His debut album In My Father's House introduced his style, mirroring Augustus Pablo's approach with melodica, vocals, and dub mixes, while he also produces under Suns of Dub with manager Ras Jammy. Performing genres like dub, roots reggae, and reggae, Addis has played alongside artists like Yami Bolo, Jah9, and Anthony B, maintaining a soft-spoken, understated presence on stage[1][2][3].
Today, Addis and sister Isis steward the family legacy through Rockers International, renovating the record store and label founded by Augustus in 1979, repressing vinyl, and developing a documentary. His work emphasizes healing through spiritual music, drawing from thousands of classic Rockers rhythms while collaborating on new projects[1][2][4].
Fun Facts
- Addis received his first melodica at age three, describing it as the 'soundtrack to my childhood' and a natural vibe leading to his career[2].
- He was raised around reggae legends like Lloyd Hemmings, White Mice, Benbow, and Chinna Smith, with Earl Sixteen picking him up from school as 'Uncle Earl'[2].
- Addis casually plays piano one-handed, as observed during a visit to Earl Chinna Smith's yard in Kingston[2].
- Along with his sister Isis, he recently renovated the Rockers International record store and is developing a documentary about Augustus Pablo[1].
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Augustus Pablo - father and primary musical influence, taught melodica use and roots reggae/dub style (performed father's songs like 'Java'; debut album In My Father's House reflects father's approach) [childhood onward (from age 3)]
- Earl Chinna Smith - early band collaborator and family friend who taught and performed with him (live performances in band with Chinna Smith and Style Scott) [early career]
- King Tubby - stylistic influence cited by Addis (influenced dub production style) [ongoing influence]
Key Collaborators
- Chinna Smith - band member and live performance partner (early live band performances tributing Augustus Pablo) [early career]
- Style Scott - band member and live performance partner (early live band performances) [early career]
- Ras Jammy - manager and co-producer (Suns of Dub productions and mixtapes) [recent years]
- Green Lion Crew - production and recording collaboration (releases with Micah Shemiah, Mr Williamz, Jah Bami, Medi Sun) [2021]
- Earl Sixteen - family friend ('uncle') and touring partner (European tours) [ongoing]
Artists Influenced
- Isis Pablo - sister co-stewarding family musical legacy (Rockers International projects and documentary) [post-1999]
Connection Network
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Addis Pablo has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 28, 2025 | 21:54 | Jah Watchovafrom Jah Watchova | Spirits of Congo Squarew/ Baba Geno |