Hempress Sativa

Born Kerida Johnson and raised in Papine, Jamaica, Hempress Sativa is one of the most powerful voices in modern Roots Reggae and conscious music. Influenced by her Rastafarian upbringing and her father Albert “Ilawi Malawi” Johnson of Love Sound System, she developed a unique style blending roots reggae, dub, hip hop, soul, dancehall, and afrobeats into a timeless and militant sound. Known worldwide as “The Lyrical Machine,” Hempress rose to international recognition through songs like “Boom (Wah Da Da Deng),” “Rock It Ina Dance,” “Fight For Your Rights,” “Skin Teeth,” and “Ohh La La Laa.” Her debut album, Unconquerebel, topped global reggae charts and established her as a major force in conscious reggae worldwide. She later released Scientist Meets Hempress Sativa in Dub and the acclaimed 2023 album Charka, while her latest release “Woman” has become an anthem of strength and empowerment. Over the years, Hempress has collaborated with respected artists including Tiken Jay Fakoly, Junior Murvin, Paolo Baldini, Tribal Seeds, Kelissa, and Suns of Dub. Her music carries messages of liberation, spirituality, African identity, justice, empowerment, and cultural pride while staying deeply rooted in authentic Jamaican traditions. Hempress Sativa has performed on major stages worldwide including Rototom Sunsplash, Rastaplast, Uprising, Sierra Nevada Boomtownl, Reggae on the River, and Austin Reggae Festival to name a few.