Interview With Inner Circle Reggae Group

At some point, you might have seen the movie franchise Bad Boys, starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. And if you did watch it, the first sentence that might come to your mind is "Whatcha gonna do when they come for you, Bad Boys!" What if I told you that the legendary reggae OGs, Inner Circle, wrote this song? Yes, you read it right. Inner Circle has collaborated with numerous artists from different genres throughout their career. They worked with rapper Snoop Dogg on the remix of "Bad Boys (Theme from Cops)". They also joined forces with Jamaican dancehall artist Damian Marley on the hit single "Smoke Gets in My Eyes."

Well, what else can be said? These guys are straight-up legends, so let's dive into it!

CONCERTY.COM: What initially attracted you to reggae music, and how did you come together as a band to form Inner Circle?

INNER CIRCLE: Being born in Jamaica we were always attracted to Reggae music and Roots Reggae. We originally formed Inner Circle with founding members brothers Ian Lewis (bass) and Roger Lewis (guitar) in 1968. The group’s other charter members were guitarist Steven "Cat" Coore, keyboardist Michael "Ibo" Cooper, and multi-instrumentalist Richard Daley as well as Touter Harvey (keyboardist).

C: When forming the band, who were your primary influences as you started your career in the reggae music scene?

INNER CIRCLE: In the Reggae Music world it was Bob Marley alongside our original lead singer Jacob Miller who inspired us.

C: Throughout your impressive discography filled with hits, do any of your songs hold a particularly special place in your hearts?

INNER CIRCLE: All of our songs hold a special place. Though our song "Rock With You" is a major song we like. The message is universal and speaks to everyone.

C: You must have had the opportunity to perform in some incredible places around the world. Can you tell us about a particular location or venue that stands out as one of your favorites to perform in?

INNER CIRCLE: One location that was our favorite was in Uganda. The vibes from the people were amazing. You felt the connection and the appreciation.

C: Having gained popularity and recognition for your music, how do you handle the balance between staying true to your reggae roots and incorporating new elements and styles into your sound?

INNER CIRCLE: Our job is to maintain. Staying true to ourselves and our sound. While we keep the old we add the new. We look at the new styles and infuse it to what we have going on. So that way we don’t lose our message but don’t disregard the new sound.

C: Now, talking about your biggest hits, the song "Bad Boys" practically resonates with everyone worldwide. Did you expect this song to become such a massive hit?

INNER CIRCLE: Not really, we didn’t expect Bad Boys to be a hit. This actually has a deeper message. Those who listen to it and read the lyrics will see that and understand.

C: As pioneers of reggae music, how do you view the evolution of the reggae scene, and what are your thoughts on its current state in the global music industry?

INNER CIRCLE: I think Reggae has seen a metamorphosis from the younger generation. Who has used Reggae and infused it with forms of hip-hop. Reggae Music in a sense of when we knew it has changed. But our job as the band is to maintain our integrity. Keeping the message one love and peace. We don’t want to lose that.

C: Inner Circle's songs have touched on a range of social and political themes. How important is it for you, as musicians, to use your platform to address meaningful issues through your music?

INNER CIRCLE: It’s very important to tell the people how you feel. Especially the younger people who don’t really have an idea of what’s going on. The youth has to learn from people who’ve done it before. Knowledge is power & to understand that is priceless. Knowledge is the key to success.

C: With a career spanning several decades, what do you believe is the key to your longevity and ongoing success in the music industry?

INNER CIRCLE: Our key to longevity is taking it slow. Every season of opportunity is a blessing.

C: Final question, what would be one word that describes the Inner Circle Reggae Group and why?

INNER CIRCLE: It’s hard to describe us in one word but in two words we would say Good vibes!

Inner Circle
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Be prepared for Inner Circle's upcoming concerts at the link below!
Inner Circle's Next Concerts, Setlist Prediction, and more.