New release promotes roots & culture

It’s a dilemma faced by many cultures today, that is the battle to keep important traditions alive for the next generation. One local musician is using his lyrics to urge all ethnic groups to find simple ways in everyday life to share and promote their heritage. That’s the message of Jason Martinez, known to his fans as Hemplo.

Jason “Hemplo” Martinez, Musician

“The name of my latest album is “Monwenla”. Well that’s the Garifuna name for it. In English it means don’t let it die. I wrote the entire album together to show Garifuna people and everyone else that has a culture which they pertain to; don’t be afraid to show it. Don’t hide it; nuh mek it dead. Don’t care if it’s Garifuna, Spanish, Maya, English or whatever, nuh mek it dead. If that’s a part of who you are, show the world that you are proud of who you are.”

Copies of the CD are available from music stores around the country.