Itawe

Itawe, aka Donovan “Danny Gitz” Cunningham, was born in St. Ann, Jamaica in the farming community of Prickly Pole close to Nine Mile where Bob Marley grew. He began playing music after moving to Kingston. Eventually he was nicknamed “Danny Gitz” for his reputation as an outstanding guitarist. Itawe first toured in 1994 with “High Symbol”. Since then he has traveled to Europe, Australia, North America, Mexico and the Caribbean playing bass, guitar and singing backup for artists like Sugar Minott, Mystic Revelation of Rastafari, Gregory Isaacs, Everton Blender, Yami Bolo and Ini Kamoze.
Itawe’s skilled guitar work, precise vocals and vibrant stage presence keeps him in demand for stage and studio work. Any given day you can hear his guitar on IRIE FM radio all over Jamaica; in taxis, busses, clubs, schools, and on the beach. He has played many festivals and stage shows, backing major artists: Luciano, Tony Rebel, Warrior King, Richie Spice, Jah Mason, Junior Reid, Cocoa Tea, Beenie Man, Mikey General, Black Uhuru, Errol Dunkley, I Wayne, Kyan, Angie Angel, Queen Ifrika, Sugar Minott, Freddy McGregor, Fanton Mojah and more. “Danny Gitz” recorded with Morgan Heritage for their hit songs “We Feel Love” and “She’s Still Lovin’ Me” as well as for Shalom’s hit “Baby, Got News For You”. He showed versatility by playing bass and guitar on Jah Mason’s, “Princess Gone” and on “Lover’s Rock” by Sade (reggae and hip hop version). He has recorded with Sugar Minott, Kyan, Capleton, Sizzla, Luciano and others and helped compose Iqulah’s latest album, “Rastafari Forever”, featuring the Marley brothers.
Itawe (Danny Gitz) has been writing, composing, and laying tracks for his upcoming solo album - Journey to Life. He has just released a single with the Broussai reggae group in France titled “Babylon Bridge”. Itawe’s personal vision is derived from a blend of his Jamaican roots and inspiration from travel. His musical diversity reflects a passion for human rights and social justice. Whether jamming with his acoustic guitar, African drums and a stand up bass, or vibesing up the house with his original songs, Itawe captivates the hearts of his audience, and inspires dedicated listeners.