Moonraisers hit jackpot on Internet
The music of a Neuchâtel band, the Moonraisers, has been downloaded more than a quarter of a million times on the web during the past year.
The Moonraisers’ success is due to its innovative approach to reggae, which adds funk, rock, Afro and ambient styles into a sound the band calls “World and Moonstyle Reggae”.
Last year, the group’s songs were downloaded more than 250,000 times on the free Internet music platform, MP3.com. The band has been at the top of the site’s reggae charts for the same period of time.
“We don’t do it for the money,” said Jaba, the singer of the Moonraisers, referring to the music platform. “The reason why we do music is so that people can listen to it, so if we are paid, and listeners don’t have to pay, everything is perfect.”
Sony cuts a deal
Despite having sold only 5,000 copies of their new album, called “Legacy”, Sony recognised the Moonraisers’ potential, and offered them a deal for a first single with an option for four albums – a situation which will require some adapting, including more professionalism.
The group has toured extensively, and played more than 250 concerts since it was founded in 1992 by Jaba.
Part of its success is linked to its presence on the Internet, and its free music. Besides MP3.com, the Moonraisers also propose free MP3 downloads on their site – a move that has increased their popularity.
“Last year, we had a live CD to download for free on our site,” said Jaba. “We regularly had up to 100 people visit us everyday.”
To smoke or not
Reggae music has, in the past, been associated with marijuana smoking.
But Jaba says that’s misleading.
“Bob Marley was the first man to openly say that he was smoking and that he needed it for his religion – a kind of religion that he had,” said Jaba. “But people who play jazz or rock or anything else smoke just as much as reggae fans.”
Cannabis was a big issue in Switzerland recently. Last year, Parliament agreed to legalise the consumption of hashish and marijuana – a decision that will soon go to a national vote.
For Jaba and Shanti, the drummer, the benefits of cannabis are undeniable, so long as it does not fall into the hands of minors.
“We were not actively involved in this legalisation campaign,” said Shanti, “but for me, it’s a great gift from nature which allows us to relax and have a good time.”
By Jeff Nottage
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