Honey B - Herb (JA Version)
Roots reggae artist Honey B is set to release her highly anticipated single, Herb (JA Version), on April 18, 2025, through her own label, Cultivation Music, and distribution by Tuff Gong International. With its infectious horn lines, bubbling bass, and lighthearted lyrics, Herb (JA Version) will be the perfect addition to DJ sets for 4/20 parties and celebrations.
The song, produced in the vibrant heart of Jamaica's Runaway Bay, is presented as a tribute to a wise and inspiring man from the hills, yet listeners will delight in the playful double entendre referring to marijuana. Herb (JA Version) is unapologetic about the artist’s love for her so-called "good friend" named Herb, whose presence brings joy, creativity, and peace of mind. The lyrics draw inspiration from Honey B’s experiences in the Jamaican countryside, where she lived for over a decade and developed a deep reverence for the island's culture, proverbs, and wit.
The track features an all-star lineup of musicians that bring its complex yet pleasing arrangement to life. The vibrant horn lines are played by Hopeton Williams, a renowned trombonist famous for his work with reggae legend Beres Hammond. Backing vocals are provided by the legendary Jamaican reggae singer Donovan Francis, whose soulful harmonies elevate the song’s affectionate narrative. The drums are laid down by Speckle McKenzie, a respected Jamaican drummer whose rhythmic mastery adds depth to the track’s roots foundation.
“Herb (JA Version) speaks to the wisdom of country life and the way island culture shows up in everything, from the music to the conversations in the hills,” says Honey B. “It’s a song of love and good vibes, something that speaks to both the uplifting power of music and the healing qualities of the herb itself.” Honey B, a California-born reggae artist, blends Caribbean vibes with a distinct U.S. influence in her music. Raised in a family that deeply valued music, Honey B began composing songs and poetry as a child, publishing several pieces in local anthologies. Her early exposure to the Bay Area’s music scene, along with her years spent in the West Indies, cultivated her unique perspective and musicality.
Honey B’s connection with reggae music is deep-rooted, especially after spending formative years immersed in Jamaican culture. Her love for sound systems, local proverbs, and patois has fueled her musical journey, and her understanding of the significance of preserving the history and beauty of the language is evident in her work.
Over the years, Honey B has built a reputation as an artist whose clever rhyme schemes and powerful stage presence uplift audiences of all generations. She’s shared the stage with reggae legends like Cocoa Tea, Half Pint, The Wailing Souls and Sister Carol, and performed at various venues across California, Oregon, Jamaica, Kenya and the UK.