Emerging from a period of relative quiet, Rawyard Records has reestablished its presence in the music industry with a series of new releases throughout 2025, signaling a major comeback. The label, with deep roots in Kingston’s Cockburn Gardens, is now setting ambitious plans for 2026, focusing on a strategic push for its core artists.
Founder Neziah Nesbeth revealed in an interview with the Jamaica Observer that the label’s primary objective is to reintroduce its flagship act, Hot Frass, to the market. The St Thomas-born deejay achieved viral fame in 2019 with the massive street hit ‘Polo’. Nesbeth confirmed that the artist is preparing for a significant return with new material designed to create an even greater impact than his previous work. Hot Frass’s most recent single, ‘Bad Party’, has already been produced and released by the label.
Beyond its headline act, Rawyard Records is cultivating a roster of homegrown talent. Nesbeth is actively developing artists Activ and Sleepy Don, who both had releases in late 2025. Furthermore, the label has invested in three promising talents from the local community: Sleepy Don, KQ6, and Jah Be, each slated to release new singles in the coming year.
The label’s ethos is deeply intertwined with the rich musical heritage of its surroundings. Nesbeth himself was raised in Cockburn Gardens, an area renowned for its vibrant sound system culture during the 1970s and 1980s. This environment was dominated by legendary outfits like Stur Gav, operated by the iconic toaster U Roy and featuring talents such as deejays Josey Wales and Charlie Chaplin, alongside selector Inspector Willie.
This profound exposure to music legends directly inspired Nesbeth’s entry into the business. Prior to founding Rawyard Records in 2008, he built an impressive reputation as a producer, working with reggae and dancehall heavyweights including Anthony B, Sizzla, Lutan Fyah, and Fantan Mojah. This experience now informs the label’s artist-driven strategy as it positions itself for a dynamic year ahead.