Castafari

In 1977, Castafari (Andre Collins) was born in Falmouth Trelawney and raised with family members in between St. James and Somerton District 12 miles away from Montego Bay Jamaica, and being from the countryside; music was his only refuge. While growing up in a Christian home, all Reggae music was looked upon as forbidden music. Casta and his friends followed musicians such as Pappa San, Wolf Man, Free I, and Lieutenant Stichic because they were the only artists who introduced extreme styles a...

In 1977, Castafari (Andre Collins) was born in Falmouth Trelawney and raised with family members in between St. James and Somerton District 12 miles away from Montego Bay Jamaica, and being from the countryside; music was his only refuge. While growing up in a Christian home, all Reggae music was looked upon as forbidden music. Casta and his friends followed musicians such as Pappa San, Wolf Man, Free I, and Lieutenant Stichic because they were the only artists who introduced extreme styles and flavor that attracted him to the innovative music. Their creativity, edgy material and risky content challenged the Jamaican culture and norms of the western world. Reggae music was all round him, in the streets, school, playgrounds, even at night as he rested his head, he could feel the vibration of neighbors sound systems vibrating the bedroom window. “My grandmothers sewing room is still my favorite room, because that is the only place where I could listen to my music loudly growing up.” As a youngster Castafari was notorious for locking himself in this room, for this is where all his dreams began. To some of his elders it was a bother, but for Casta those were the things that brought him true joy. Strongly following in the footsteps of Jamaican Reggae legends, Castafari first started performing at the tender age of 8 years old and professionally at the age of 14. Castafari’s first major performance and most memorable was in 1997 at a large concert in Hartford, Connecticut where he supported head liners Busta Rhymes, Beenie Man and many other artists. “I felt connected with the audience they gave a great response even when I wasn’t well known in their community.” During those years he was filled with motivation while playing with various artists like Elephant man, Baby Sham, Junior Reid, Anthony B and Capleton. The name Castafari came together, “literally came together” through a loving neighbors nickname. She was like a mother to him and whenever she called him Casta it always gave him a good feeling. The ending of his name came from His Imperial Majesty Hale Selassie the First. Many social friends have always made reference to him as the king and he considers this to be a great honor. “Music is life, without music I wouldn’t be here. Through it I can offer new ideas and out looks on many of life’s situations we take so lightly, that’s important that’s real.” Castafari graduated U-Mass Amherst in 1999 with a degree in Communications and Theatre Arts. As a self-proclaimed thinker, producer, artist, songwriter and entrepreneur he has unleashed the singles "They Don't Like It", " So lovely”, and "Steal My Joy". Lyrically, Castafari has the strength of a lion and pace of a cheetah he goes head on with any project he puts his mind to. Not only is Castafari interested in personal growth but also he’s deeply interested in his community. Castafari has expanded his visions with a self-owned recording studio known as Hit Quarters Studios in Boston. He has created a place where inner city kids can develop creatively and make dreams come true. His highly anticipated first studio album is expected to drop in the fall. Castafari is traveling around the world to promote his music and warm up his touring muscles.