Don Hartley

Steeped in faith and tradition, Don Hartley has been a torchbearer for authentic roots reggae from the very start, fusing deep spiritual messages with powerful rhythms. Born and raised in Jamaica, he carries the soulful essence of roots reggae and gospel to the UK and beyond, uplifting and inspiring with every note.

about

Don Hartley is a distinguished reggae artist renowned for his unique fusion of biblical themes, Pan-African ideals and life experiences with the timeless rhythms of roots reggae.Over a career spanning more than three decades, Hartley has captivated audiences worldwide with profound lyrics drawn from his unique worldview. His journey began in 1990 with the release of his debut 7” single, That Lady, setting the stage for a career dedicated to spreading messages of faith, hope, and redemption.From 2001 to 2005, he collaborated with the renowned roots reggae collective Nucleus Roots, producing anthems like Run Come Quick, Deep Roots, and Irie Meditation, which became classics within the genre.Hartley’s music authentically mirrors his spiritual journey—from Jah Rastafari to Jesus Christ, from earthly herbs to heavenly bread. Earlier tracks like Deep Roots, Irie Meditation, and Step It Up Rasta have given way to present-day songs like Everybody Should Know and The Third Day, reflecting a profound realignment of perspective and a commitment to Christology.In the years since Nucleus Roots, Hartley has worked with producers like Mad & Dread, MessenJah Music, Roll & Record, Faya Dub, and Lewis Bennett Dubs, consistently releasing music that speaks to the human condition through the lens of faith. His unwavering commitment to his craft and message has earned him a respected place in both the reggae community and among spiritual music enthusiasts.Hartley has graced stages both intimate and grand, performing at venues such as Band on the Wall, Club Sauvage in Paris, and reggae hotspots like Hootananny in London, Manchester Carnival, and the Preston Reggae Festival. His dynamic stage presence and deep connection with audiences make his live performances unforgettable experiences that capture the true spirit of roots reggae.Don Hartley’s music is a journey of faith, love, and resilience—a testament to the enduring power of reggae and the abiding spirit of African heritage. Explore his music on Bandcamp or your preferred digital platform, and experience the fusion of music and spirituality that defines his sound.Looking ahead, Don’s mission remains steadfast: lifting high the torch of wisdom, using the power of reggae to spread messages of love, faith, and understanding—‘sowing seeds and reaping fields ripe for harvest.’

Releases

Don Hartley’s musical journey spans decades, blending roots reggae with spiritually charged and thought-provoking lyrics. From his first release in 1990 to collaborations with Nucleus Roots, MessenJah Music, I-niverse, Mikey Dub, Mad & Dread Productions, and more, his music carries a message of truth, upliftment, and spiritual strength.Explore the collection of releases across different labels and collaborations beginning with his own Risong Son label.Early Release (1990)
🔹 Vinyl:
That Lady [7"] – Rising Son (1990)
That Lady / Come To Me [12"]– Rising Son (1990)
Nucleus Roots (Manchester, UK, 2000 - 2016)🔹 Albums & Compilations:
• Run Come Quick – Nucleus Roots / Nucleus Roots (2000)
• Deep Roots – Nucleus Roots / Nucleus Roots (2000)
• Irie Meditation – Nucleus Roots / Universal Love (2002)
• Dreams – Nucleus Roots / Universal Love (2002)
• Behold – Nucleus Roots / Heart of The Matter, Vol 3 (2004)
🔹 Vinyl Releases:
• Irie Meditation / Step it up Rasta – Universal Egg (2007)
• State of Mind – Tribe 84 Records (2016)
Faya Dub (Paris, France, 2001)
• When The Bread Come Back – Faya Dub / Sings & Plays (2001)
• When The Bread Come Back (Tabla String Dub Remix, Inédit) – Wagram Music / Various (2001)
• When The Bread Come Back – Villa Saint Michel / Samouraï Vill-Du? (2008)
Roll & Record (Rennes, France, 2016 - 2019)
• Let Your Light Shine – Roll & Record / Ina Di Radio (2016)
• Every Little Thing – Ruff Diamond / Pure Niceness Riddim EP (2019)
Lewis Bennett Dub (Doncaster, UK, 2019)
• Rivers of Babylon – Lewis Bennett Dub (2019)
Mad & Dread Productions (2018 - 2021)
🔹 Digital & Vinyl Releases (for the JRDC School in Shashamane, Ethiopia):
• Take My Burdens – Mad & Dread Productions (2018)• Flattery – Mad & Dread Productions (2021)These tracks support the JRDC School in Shashamane, Ethiopia, helping to provide educational opportunities through reggae music and cultural advocacy.MessenJah Music (Southend On Sea, UK, 2021 - 2022)🔹 Vinyl Release:
• Power & Glory – MessenJah Music (2021)
🔹 Digital Releases:
• Envy Not – MessenJah Music (2022)
I-niverse (2024)🔹 EP Release:
• Don Hartley Meets I-niverse – Song of Creation EP (2024)
• Song of Creation
• Orthodox Soldier
• Mother Zion
• The Third Day
Produced in collaboration with I-niverse, a renowned roots reggae selector and producer, this EP delivers a spiritually rich and uplifting message, rooted in deep reggae tradition.Compilation Features🔹 The Big Mountain Riddim – Various Artists (2022)
• World One Entertainment Label
• Featuring Don Hartley, George Nooks, Mikey General, and more.
🔹 The Brick Wall Riddim – Various Artists (2020)
• I Love Sound Production
• Featuring Don Hartley, King Kong, Claire Angel, and other reggae greats.
Listen & Explore More🎵 Stream & Purchase:
📀 Spotify
📀 Apple Music
📀 Bandcamp
📀 Merchandise
Stay tuned for more releases as Don Hartley continues to bring reggae music with a message—deep, conscious, and uplifting.