(Benny Page & Italis)
“With a following that is already strong in Europe, British producer Benny Page plans to bring his style to a new project involving dancehall and reggae acts which he hopes will help him gain new fans in Jamaica and the United States. Having been in Jamaica for just over a week, Benny Page says he has already done work with acts such as Jah Vinci, Italis, Assassin and Richie Loop.”…courtesy of The Gleaner
About Italis:
Patrick Anthony Willis’ entrance into the world is as extraordinary as he is. One September 3rd afternoon more than three decades ago, Patrick’s mother Maulese gave birth to the artist the world would come to know and love as Italis…”on the side of the road,” in the lush parish of Portland, Jamaica. “I was born in the streets, so it will be hard for anyone to get me out,” Italis laughs.
As a child, his unusually deep voice, inherited from his dad and grandfather made him a “celebrity at church.” Not only did he sing with the choir, he was often asked by the pastor to preach. There was just that special something his voice conveyed, that the congregation couldn’t seem to get enough of.
Inspired at an early age by the crowned Prince of Reggae Dennis Brown, Italis knew that a career in music was his destiny. He spent many hours listening to artists like Papa San, Ninja Man , Garnet Silk, I-Wayne and Bushman, and developed over time, a deeper appreciation for his roots and a desire to express himself through music. “Although I am mainly a dj, the singers are the ones who inspired me the most. Dennis Brown is the artist I listened to and was inspired by more than anyone.”
As Italis got older, his voice became deeper. So deep in fact, his sound would often times be mistaken for popular dancehall icon, Buju Banton. “I love Buju Bantan. He is also an inspiration. People tell me I sound like him all the time. I can’t help that. This is just me. Naturally.”
Discovered by reggae producer Donald Grant, better known as Danny Champagne, Italis describes Danny as his mentor. “Danny showed me the way and gave me the encouragement I needed to pursue my career.”
It was also Danny Champagne who would introduce Italis to the four-time Grammy Award winning producer, Tony ‘CD’ Kelly, who recognized immediately the potential in this young artist. After all, it was Tony ‘CD’ Kelly who was one of the first producers to voice Buju Bantan while working at Shocking Vibes. Greatness recognized.
After recording two hit singles, “It’s Really This” featuring singjay Dre Zee and “Money” on Tony’s K..Licious Label, Italis also got another 2012 hit which features Shaki on Shaggy’s “Calabash” riddim called “Sexy For Ya”. This artist however, should not be mistaken for an upcoming artist, as Italis aka Patrick Anthony, has been in the industry for close to a decade. Recording for John Baker and Jade Productions earlier in his career, has seen him collaborating with artists such as mainstreams, Mario and Wclef Jean, as well as Zoe, Alborosie and Sizzla.
This artist has a catalogue of hits under his belt, and many are available for purchase on iTunes.
Italis in 2013 is poised and ready to show fans of great reggae music what he is made of. New year new material; as Til Shilo Music/Golden House Records based in Jamaica, has recently released three singles from Italis’ upcoming album, “Rocksteady”.
“Bundle A Calli” on the Tidal Sequence riddim, “Dash It Whe” on The Journey riddim, and “Reminisce” on the Sky High riddim are currently making waves on the radio and across the internet.
As an independent artist, Italis is focused and taking the reins in regards to his career. He has shared the stage with numerous reggae and dancehall artists, and is determined to become that household name. His raw talent and undeniable lyrical skills will take him where he needs to go. His humble demeanor and magnetic personality will definitely keep him there.
“I am a GOD-fearing youth. My life is to to make others joyful.”…
Celebrity Plus-Again! 