Iley
From Jamaica’s heart to the world — uplifting sound, timeless reggae soul.
Iley, born Colin Levy, is a Jamaican-Canadian singer, producer, and the visionary behind the respected King of Kings Productions label. Born in Saint James, Jamaica, Iley’s musical journey began in a creatively rich environment. His mother, a vocalist, songwriter, and teacher from Kingston, Jamaica, and his father, a promoter, producer, and selector from Hanover, nurtured his talents. As a child, Iley split his time between Kingston on weekends and weekdays in Hanover, absorbing diverse musical and cultural influences.
Iley
From Jamaica’s heart to the world — uplifting sound, timeless reggae soul.
Iley, born Colin Levy, is a Jamaican-Canadian singer, producer, and the visionary behind the respected King of Kings Productions label. Born in Saint James, Jamaica, Iley’s musical journey began in a creatively rich environment. His mother, a vocalist, songwriter, and teacher from Kingston, Jamaica, and his father, a promoter, producer, and selector from Hanover, nurtured his talents. As a child, Iley split his time between Kingston on weekends and weekdays in Hanover, absorbing diverse musical and cultural influences.
A Journey Across Borders
Migrating to Toronto in the winter of 1990 and later relocating to Montreal, Iley’s musical path was shaped under the mentorship of the late, great Bevin Jackson. Recognized primarily as a roots reggae artist, Iley’s sound is also influenced by soul greats like Sam Cooke, The Stylistics, and Percy Sledge.
Early Artistic Roots
At the tender age of 11, Iley showed artistic promise beyond music, working as a painter and selling his works in various art galleries. He later turned to songwriting, penning songs for reggae legends whom he affectionately called his “uncles,” including Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown, John Holt, and Sanchez.
Career Highlights & Achievements
- “Flowers of My Garden” earned a JUNO Award nomination for Best Reggae Song and topped the Jamaican charts for six weeks.
- “Lovers Holiday” also reached #1 twice in Jamaica.
- Iley’s versions of “Don’t Look Back” (The Temptations) and “If I Had the World” (Dennis Brown) attained global recognition for authentic and passionate renditions.
- The Grammy-nominated album Unleash showcased Iley’s excellence as a producer, lyricist, and artist.
