Biography of Reggae Icon Roy “Bugle” Thompson August 2024 Early Life and Beginnings Roy “Bugle” Thompson was born on January 30, 1982, and is originally from Portland but grew up in Kingston, Jamaica, a city known for its rich musical heritage. Growing up in the vibrant and often challenging streets of the bustling city, Bugle was naturally drawn to the rhythms and messages of reggae music. From a young age, he was inspired by the legendary sounds of Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Buju Banton, whose music shaped his worldview and ignited his passion for creating music that speaks to the soul. Bugle’s early exposure to Jamaica’s dynamic cultural scene fueled his ambition to pursue a career in music. He began his journey by performing at local events and talent shows, where his raw talent quickly became apparent. His performances were marked by a deep, authentic connection to the music, which set him apart from his peers and earned him recognition within the local music community. Growth and Success Bugle’s dedication to his craft soon caught the attention of established artists and producers in the reggae and dancehall scenes. His big break came when he was invited to write for dancehall superstar Elephant Man in 2000. This opportunity opened doors for Bugle, allowing him to tour with Elephant Man on the “Good to Go” tour in 2002 and make notable appearances on platforms like BET’s *106 & Park* and at the MTV Awards in Japan. These experiences were pivotal in shaping Bugle’s career, providing him with the exposure and industry connections needed to launch his solo career. His collaborations with Tornado on tracks like “Modella” and “If I Say I Love You” further showcased his lyrical abilities and solidified his reputation as a rising star in the reggae world. Bugle released his debut album ‘Anointed’ in 2007 — which was critically acclaimed — introducing him as a significant force in reggae music. The album featured hits like the popular track “What Have I Done to You” and impactful tracks such as “Great Day”, “I Don’t Worry”, “Tears of Joy” and “Journey” to name a few. This album resonated with listeners for their introspective lyrics and soulful melodies. His follow-up album ‘Music My Way’ didn’t disappoint and further established Bugle as a versatile artist capable of blending traditional reggae with contemporary sounds Over the years, Bugle has released numerous projects that have topped charts and become anthems in the reggae community. These include EPs such as ‘Life Span’ released in 2012 and ‘Reggae Knowledge’ in 2016; albums such as ‘Picture Perfect’ released in 2019 and ‘Toxicity’ in 2021; and tracks that have become international classics such as “Don’t Give Up,” “Nuh Compatible,” and “Rasta Party.” His versatility and passion for delivering conscious messages that educate and uplift his audience is reflected in his growth and can be seen throughout his musical career. Bugle has built a name for himself as he is recognized for connecting with listeners across the globe on a deeper level, tackling social issues, and promoting resilience, love and unity, all while honouring Jamaica’s vibrant cultural heritage. An Advocate for the People Bugle’s music is deeply personal yet universally relatable, often reflecting his experiences, he infuses his music with messages of hope. He is committed to using his voice to advocate for positive change, speaking out on topics such as injustice, crime and poverty. He is consistently using his platform to serve the people. Through his music, he encourages his listeners to persevere, hold onto their faith and remain resilient in times of hardship to better themselves and the society they call home. Bugle’s dedication to his craft and his community has made him not just a musician, but a respected voice in the fight for social justice. His contributions to reggae music have earned him and influential figure in the world of reggae, dedicated to spreading messages of love, unity, and social consciousness through his music.and influential figure in the world of reggae, dedicated to spreading messages of love, unity, and social consciousness through his music.