Reggae artist Richie Stephens has transformed his poignant live tribute into a permanent studio recording, releasing an official cover of Jimmy Cliff’s iconic anthem “Trapped.” The recording, which dropped January 9, 2026, through Stephens’ independent label Pot Of Gold Production, serves as both a personal homage and a professional milestone for the vocalist.
Stephens revealed that the song held profound personal significance throughout his career, frequently serving as a cornerstone of his early performances and a continuous source of creative motivation. His decision to produce a studio version was a natural progression following his widely praised live rendition at the official state funeral for the late reggae legend.
The new recording showcases Stephens’ powerful vocal delivery, masterfully encapsulating the song’s core themes of resilience and entrapment while faithfully honoring the emotional depth of Cliff’s original composition. Critics note the studio version retains the raw intensity that made his funeral performance at the National Indoor Sport Centre a memorable event, while achieving a new level of polished artistry.
The release also recontextualizes the track’s storied history. Originally penned and recorded by Jimmy Cliff, “Trapped” achieved global recognition through Bruce Springsteen’s renowned 1985 cover, which introduced the song to international rock audiences. Stephens’ interpretation now adds a new chapter to this legacy, bridging reggae’s roots with contemporary execution.
The tribute single is now available for streaming and purchase across all major digital platforms, including iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Tidal.