Apple Gabriel, as history repeats itself

History is repeating itself. That is the feeling one gets on reading Apple's first message. For it is the originality of Jahsolidrock's riddims that is first called into question: just as Israel Vibration experienced with "Why You So Craven" and Junjo Lawes, Apple Gabriel discovered that one of the riddims on his album was also on Chezidek's "Judgement Time", from the same label. This triggered the first salvo: "Jahsolidrock tricked me by lying, telling me the riddims were original when other artists are singing on that very same riddim! (…) I know I am great, it is a gift from God!" He went on: "I am currently homeless, living in my car on the streets of the USA, and I have been manipulated and abused by Jahsolidrock and Not Easy At All, who released my album without my authorisation", also taking issue with the album's unprofessional mixing.

"The work was not finished to make the album sound the best it could, Apple continues. In 36 years of career and experience, I have never dealt with a label so disrespectful, manipulative, with so little consideration for artists, their rights and their opinions." Straight afterwards came another message: "Also, I do not recommend any artist to work with Jahsolidrock or Not Easy At All. It is an artist's worst nightmare! I am in the process of filing a complaint to denounce this contract, and obtain justice."

A warm reception for the album
Contacted by us, Jahsolidrock chose not to add fuel to the fire and to stick to the line set out in a press release, in which the label regrets the turn events have taken: "We are truly sorry and saddened to learn that Apple Gabriel is not satisfied with the final result, which we have already distributed internationally with the best intentions. (…) The whole production team and the musicians can honestly say that they gave everything they had, that they worked hard, with love and care to make this beautiful album, and to help Apple return to the forefront." It concluded: "The warm reception of the album all over the world seems to support our vision." And with good reason: nearly all the reviews are positive.

"That is all we can say about this for the moment, Ras Denko, the label's manager, replied to us. We hope for a positive outcome to this affair, and we are in close contact with Apple Gabriel's representatives." Apple Gabriel did not wish to answer our questions. Will he stand behind this new album, in interviews or on stage? Time will tell. It took him 10 years to release an album after "Another Moses" in 1999. Let us hope this dispute does not cost him as much time again.