Anyone that has come in contact with Evabless, especially
musically, would say without a doubt that he is one of Barbados' most promising
reggae artist. Evabless, formally known as “Impy Dan,” was Born
Rodney Taitt on July 12, 1976 to Mr. and Mrs. Roosevelt Taitt. His Parents also
had a deep passion for music. His Mother, though deeply rooted in Christianity,
never denied herself a good time on the dance floor, while his father once owned
a big sound system and would frequently play at what was known in those days as
hi-fi dances. "My father loved music, I remember the days when my brothers and I
wouldn't walk through the house while he was recording , because none of us
wanted to be the one responsible for skipping his Charley Pride,
or Jackie Opel records (smiles)." His father would also sometimes
relax to songs from the likes of Bob Marley, Gregory Isaacs,
and Bunny Wailer, just to name a few.
This was Evabless' first introduction to the sweet sounds of reggae
music. In the neighborhood where he grew up, 'Bless' was constantly surrounded
by childhood friends who shared his passion for music. One of those childhood
friends was the late Shakey Ranks whom he truly admired." I
remember a conversation I had with Shakey when I was like nine years old," Bless
recalled "and I asked Shakey what it took to be a chanter (smiles). He said,
'You have to ride de riddim, make sense on de riddim, and always send a positive
message,' and ever sense then I've been doing my thing." Evabless has been a
member of numerous reggae groups from his native island, and has always been
exalted to the top of his peers. He was once the main act of a rising group in
Barbados called 'The Foundation Youth' which boasted members such
as, Twin Man, Lil Lamb, and Lil Buggy,
just to name a few, but because of differences in opinion and miscommunication,
the group met it's demise.
While still a member of the Foundation Youth, he was admired for
his lyrical approach, and for originating sayings such as, "Truth Over Comfort",
Trodding from the land of Jackie Opel, Skiddly Deng, etc.., which to this day is
still being use by some of his peers. "I grew up in a time where an artist was
respected for originality. Self-reliance was always instilled in me by Shakey,
so I just grew with it." Since then, Evabless has matured musically, and has
shared the stage and studio (whether opening shows or cutting dubplates) with
artist such as, Anthony B, Luciano, Barrington
Levy, Sean Paul, Mikey General, Mr.
Easy, Bounty Killa, Devon Clark, and
Sluggy Ranks.
Evabless recounted a time while cutting dubs with Luciano
and Mikey General in Barbados. While the three recorded together,
Luciano marveled at his lyrical sharpness, and his ability to deliver, while
Mikey General was heard chanting lines from his song as they excited the studio.
Listening to his music it is clear to see why even the stars marvel at his gift
and his capability to perfect his craft. So whether his music is complementing
the beauty of the female, or lashing out at poverty, mental, physical, or
spiritual slavery, you too would agree about the nature of his talent, and you
too will see why in the very near future Evabless will become a force to be
reckoned with