As Jamaica prepares to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Emperor Haile Selassie I’s historic state visit, musician Joseph Benaiah has revitalized the classic tribute track ‘His Majesty is Coming.’ The original recording by The In Crowd, released in 1978, receives a contemporary reinterpretation through Benaiah’s self-produced cover released on March 16.
Benaiah revealed to Observer Online that his inspiration for the project came from keyboardist Robbie Lyn, an original member of The In Crowd who performed on the initial recording. The artist assembled an impressive ensemble of Jamaican music veterans for the project, including drummer Kirk Bennett, bassist Donald ‘Danny Bassie’ Dennis, guitarist Mitchum ‘Khan’ Chin, and saxophonist Dean Fraser.
‘The arrangement, magnificent horn sections, and exceptional vocals immediately captivated me,’ Benaiah explained regarding the song’s enduring appeal. ‘This composition has maintained universal admiration within musical circles—I’ve yet to encounter a musician who doesn’t appreciate this masterpiece.’
The original composition was crafted by Fil Callender, founder and guitarist of The In Crowd, and featured on the band’s 1978 album ‘Man From New Guinea’ under Island Records distribution.
Benaiah retains childhood memories of Selassie’s momentous April 21-25, 1966 visit, when thousands of Rastafarians gathered at Kingston’s Palisadoes Airport to welcome the Ethiopian monarch whom many considered divine. Emperor Haile Selassie I passed away in August 1975 at age 83, following his overthrow in a military coup the previous year.