Reggae Star Duane Stephenson Blends Roots and Lovers Rock for Weekend Dude
Duane Stephenson – Weekend Dude
Penthouse Records
2025
Duane engages listeners with original tracks and covers of classics from Slim Smith, The Wailers, Delroy Wilson, and Dolly Parton & Porter Wagoner. The 14-track album, produced by award-winning producer Donovan Germain, highlights Duane’s signature vocals with songs like “Jaqueline,” “Blessed Are the Meek,” and “Jah Jah Give Us Life”
He pays homage to reggae’s foundations with renditions of “Blessed Are the Meek” (Slim Smith & Dave Barker), “Jah Jah Give Us Life to Live” (The Wailing Souls), and “The Last Thing on My Mind” (Dolly Parton & Porter Wagoner).
The album features a select few collaborations. The gruff yet charismatic Josey Wales delivers on “Dancehall Broom,”while Exco Levi joins Duane on “That’s What She Loves,” a modern ode to women who enjoy life’s finer things and the men willing to provide them.
The album’s musicians include Mitcham “Khan” Chin, Lamont Savory, Garth “Duckie” Forester, Wade Johnson, Robby Lyn, Bowie McLaughlin, Kirk Bennett, and Jason Welch, among others. On the timing of the release, Duane says, “I felt it was time for a fresh start with a fresh sound. This album has been a long time coming.”
Weekend Dude presents a softer side of reggae, blending originality with the smooth sounds of lovers rock.
