“Mankind lost their ways. When I was a kid, there were much poverty, but you could still let the door of your house open. In our days, so many people are lost in greed and jealousy. Hatred and violence is rising. It’s time to remember who we are and what we need.”             Kernel Sawyers

On our way to Budapest we stop for three days in a little town close to Frankfurt to visit friends. And completely unexpected, here we met Kernel Sawyers, also known as Quest. He is a musician from Jamaica, who right now promotes his work in Europe. We used the opportunity to sit together and talk with him about his life, music and the worlds need for love and unity.

Kernel was born 1981 in Kingston, Jamaica. Since he was a kid, he wanted to make music.

“It was a hard way. I am not as blessed as other people, who can sing like an angel”, Kernel told us. “I had to practice everyday. Under the shower, in the car or at the bus stop. And I still have to do. But I want to get some messages around.”

For him music is a revolution. It helps us to remember who we are and what we really need.

“When we live a simple life, happiness comes so easy. We have to stop to always want more, but learn again to be satisfied with what we have.”

Kernel songs are about life, about good things and bad things, but he always tries to keep them in a positive vibe.

One of his big role models is the Jamaican artist Blackman. “When I was younger he told me, I should never give up on music. In the hard times I remember that, and so here still I am.”

In his career Kernel worked with many international labels, like UK records, College boys and Next level productions. This year he will go to Switzerland to record his new song with the Swiss artist Lea.

One of the most important influence in his music are his roots in Jamaica.

“If you want to make Reggae or Dancehall music, you have to sing in Jamaican. With the sound of the words, the flow of the music comes.”

But for that you do not need to be born on Jamaica. One of Kernels favorite artist is Gentleman. “This guy proved, that you can reach anything, if you really want. He opened a door for European artist to make authentic Reggae music.”

Although his roots are very important for Kernel, he traveled many years around the world. He lived in Suriname and in the United Kingdom.

“I never miss Jamaica. It is with me, where ever I go”

If you are now curios about Kernels music, have a look here: “The Blessings”

The video of the song was made in Jamaica. The lyrics speak for themselves, so enjoy!