Michael Robinson, Gleaner Writer

Seretse Small - file

Griot Music is breathing life into Jamaica's music scene. With virtuoso guitarist Seretse Small at the helm, this company is currently developing 'Live Music Nation', an effort that will see Griot Music partnering with venues and sponsors to have live music happening locally seven nights a week.

"Live Music Nation is an army of musicians who are going to redefine what it means to be Jamaican by changing the Jamaican music industry," explains Small. "You won't have any excuse to stay home at night any more."

Buoyed by the successes of two recently concluded concert series at Christopher's Jazz Cafe and Red Bones Blues Cafe, Griot Music is on the verge of realising the vision of its founder and CEO. The series, which ran concurrently, featured acts like Della Manley, Benjy Myaz and Robin Banks. "We're basically seeking to make Jamaica the live music capital of the world," says Seretse.

Development

Small's production company is primarily concerned with the showcasing, recording and development of live music. Its new Windsor Avenue headquarters has facilities for both the rehearsal and recording of live music bands. "I really believe in capturing that spontaneous expression," says Small.

With over two decades of experience as a musician and teacher, Seretse is also concerned with wholistic artistic development. "I want to create a space where people can develop," he explains during a small break in his very tight schedule. "Right now people are just hustling, trying to 'mek a money' and the music is suffering - Jamaica is suffering - because of it."

Griot Music is currently preparing to host the Jamaican leg of Global Battle of the Bands 2008, an international competition with a US$100,000 prize purse.