TIPPA IRIE is a global reggae icon, and a pioneer of the Black British music scene and last week he dropped his long-awaited book, ‘Stick to My Roots’.

The top radio DJ, record producer, successful performer and owner of his own studio has enjoyed an incredible career which spans 40 years, which shows no signs of stopping yet.

From being pushed by his family into entering talent competitions as a young boy in South London to a Grammy nomination for his work with The Black Eyed Peas, this memoir is compelling in telling the truth behind Tippa’s determination to succeed against the odds.

While there are hopes and dreams, there is also great challenges and trauma.

Speaking to the Voice Tippa said: “Writing “Stick To My Roots” is quite special for me because it has given me the opportunity to tell my real story through my own eyes and experience, rather than someone else telling it for me.

“My story speaks to what life was like growing up in the UK, not only for me and my family, but so many other people with Caribbean roots.

“Music has been my savior among deep traumas in my life. I will never stop creating, and through this book I’m finally able to share what I’ve experienced both in life and in music.”

‘Stick to My Roots’ includes wonderful memories and testimonies from some of the many stars Tippa has worked with including UB40’s Ali Campbell, Wyclef Jean and Maxi Priest.

There is so much love for Tippa, not least because of his willingness to work with established names as well as emerging artists and the encouragement he has offered to so many newcomers over the years.

Despite his international standing, Tippa Irie is known for his humility and immense pride in where he started.

“To truly understand reggae and its lyrical content, its origins and its movements, from Toots and the Maytals to the anthems of Dennis Brown, Daddy U-Roy, Bob Marley and the Wailers, to know true roots music, you must first understand the journey of the Jamaican people.

“The elders taught us that to know where you are going, you must first know where you’re coming from.”

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