Steele & the Mob Squad Band
The three times JUNO nominated and multiple award winning artist Steele is described as dynamic and sensational, with the versatility and range that defies restriction to any one genre. He is as captivating in his handling of R&B material as he is with soul, reggae, classical, and jazz, but makes no mistake REGGAE is his first love. Born in Lucea Jamaica, Steele’s inspiration comes from his parents who sang on the church choir, his first taste of success came with his recording of Stevie Wonder’s “Ribbon in the Sky”, produced by veteran singer and producer Tristan Palmer. Steele is now regarded as one of the most consistent reggae artist to call Canada home, his music transcends all ages, gender and colour. Over the years he has made an indelible imprint on the reggae music-loving audiences with appearances at various venues in most major cities in the country. It is safe to say Steele is one of the most requested artists for live reggae performances. He has been a repeat performer at most Caribbean festival in the country. Festivals such as Jambana, Eglinton Street Festival, Rasta Fest, and Jamaica Day Celebration held in Toronto. The Winnipeg Caribbean Festival in Manitoba ,the Maple Ridge Caribbean festival in British Columbia, and the Calgary Reggae Festival in Alberta have embraced the artist. He has appeared internationally, performing in Africa and America, and in Jamaica on shows such Reggae Sum fest, Kite Festival, and Rebel Salute. It is no mystery that his annual Birthday Gala held in April is always a Sold out event.
“Jah Is My Strength” represents Steele’s break-through song, and he has not slowed down since. Other songs to hit the local charts includes “Another Confrontation”, and “She Believes in me”. He has shared the stage with some of reggae’s most respected artists, namely: Freddie McGregor, Rita Marley, Tony Rebel, Sanchez, Luciano, and Queen Ifrica among others.
Although most people recognize him as a singer, Steele is an accomplished musician, songwriter, and producer who have earned a reputation as a perfectionist with his professional approach to his music. In 2004 Steele released his first full length solo CD/Album “Uncorrupted” and the world stood up to take note of this lyrically conscious brother. Tracks from “Uncorrupted” hit many charts globally and in Canada, the CD was showered with many accolades which included a nomination from Canada’s highest musical awards, the JUNO for Reggae Recording of the Year. Steele has since then seen his popularity grow significantly, he accredits this to the blessings from the Almighty and the love from his many fans that continue to support his music. He has recorded for producers such as Computer Paul of the Boot Camp label, Lloyd Campbell of the Joe Fraser label, and Mobs Production Label.
In 2007, Steele dropped his sophomore CD “The Love of Jah”, and was blessed once again with the achievement of being named “Best Male Vocalist of the Year”, “Best Songwriter of the Year”, and Top CD/Album of the year, and Artist of the Year by the Reggae Music Achievement Awards. Hits from that Cd included “What's Wrong Wid Wi”, a duet with crooner George Nooks, “New World” with Queen Ifrica, and his heart felt rendition of “Slave Driver”, the Bob Marley original .In 2009, Steele released “The Man The Music” and again the musical compilation captured more hearts with its release. With no letting up, the CD received another two awards from the RMAA. In 2011 Steele went on to receive the first Irie Music Award for “Male Artist of the Year”. In 2012 he released his fourth studio Cd Reality and saw “Woman” his single from the album once again nominated for a JUNO Award.
In 2013 and 2014 Steele was recognized by the Caribbean Music and Entertainment Award, and the Uprising Youth in Progress Award as “Male Artist of the Year” and “International Artist of the Year”. In 2015, Steele was blessed once again with another JUNO Nomination for his single Hold On till I die. In 2017 Steele released yet another Cd “Your Attention Please”, this once again a true testament to the substance he continues to deliver. Move forward to 2020 and the artist has no reason to stop. His latest CD release “ Just Breathe” is already creating a stir. Even in the midst of a global Pandemic, singles from the album such as “Sweet Reggae Music”, “A Feel Like” “Push It” and “Hold me Tight” gives joy and hope. Steele is considered by many to be the People’s Artist.
