Jamaican reggae luminary Protoje has kicked off 2025 with a vibrant new single, “Big 45.” Known for his signature blend of roots reggae, dancehall, and contemporary influences, Protoje continues to push the boundaries of the genre with his latest release.
First teased at his live performances and across social media, “Big 45” had fans eagerly anticipating its official drop. The track—produced by The Indiggnation and longtime collaborator Winta James—serves as a natural successor to his October 2024 EP, The Jamaican Situation. Sonically, it carries forward the EP’s rich reggae textures, pulsing basslines, and socially conscious lyricism, reinforcing Protoje’s status as one of modern reggae’s most dynamic voices.
Accompanying the single is a visually striking music video, steeped in Jamaican culture and aesthetics. The clip showcases Protoje riding through the streets on the back of a massive sound system truck, a nod to the island’s legendary sound clash culture.
“This is just a reggae and dancehall anthem,” Protoje shared in a press release. “It’s talking about sound systems, live music, and the energy that brings people together. The moment we started playing it, everybody felt the vibe—we knew it was one of those records that unites people.”
Fans won’t have to wait long to hear “Big 45” live. Protoje is set to embark on a world tour, launching March 9th with a performance at Australia’s WOMADelaide festival before heading to major European cities like Barcelona, Hamburg, Lisbon, and Cologne. On April 4, he kicks off the U.S. leg of the tour at the Reggae Rise Up Festival in Tempe, Arizona, promising an electrifying live experience.
With “Big 45,” Protoje not only delivers a heavyweight anthem but also reaffirms his role as a torchbearer for contemporary reggae.
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