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While going through rough times last year, singer Grantie Asher called on divine intervention to see him through his challenges. As part of his recovery, he wrote a song recalling his predicament.

Wayside, the title of that song, was produced and recently released by Yllavation.

“I was going through a very challenging time personally, and I encouraged myself by believing that Jah would never leave me. That’s where the words came from,” said the veteran British artiste.

Known for songs like Black Skin and Ethiopia, Grantie Asher has been a popular member of the United Kingdom’s reggae scene for almost 30 years. From Huddersfield in west Yorkshire, his parents are Jamaican, both from St Ann.

He told Observer Online that reggae in the UK has evolved considerably since he cut his first songs for producer Sydney Crooks, a member of rock steady group, The Pioneers, best known for the novelty song, Long Shot (Kick di Bucket).

“Musically, it is one big blend of a reggae mixing pot! Reggae is so vast that there is a diversity of different styles contributed by young and old alike,” said Grantie Asher. “In the UK, we are still gaining recognition internationally, despite an ever-changing and challenging landscape.”

Like most British reggae singers, his influences are a mix of classic Jamaican, British and American stylists.

“Musically, if you listen to some of my riffs when I’m singing, you will hear the influence of Luther Vandross. Another influence is Beres Hammond, Luciano, and Peter Hunnigale. Currently, I am influenced by Mortimer,” said Grantie Asher.

- Howard Campbell