XKhraig Says 'the Passion For Reggae and Dancehall in Spanish-Speaking Markets is Undeniable'

Although it was his first time performing in South America, XKhraig felt right at home performing in Colombia in early June. The fans’ eclectic tastes suited his music, a blend of dancehall, Rhythm And Blues and hip hop.

XKhraig performing at Rototom Colombia in Bogota in early June. (Contributed photo)The Jamaican did five shows, the biggest being Rototom Colombia in Bogota. He also performed at Def Jamaica, a popular club in Soacha, a suburb of Bogota.

XKhraig also used the opportunity to showcase some of his latest songs, including My Love and Yaadi Girl, both released in 2025. 

“The reception in Colombia exceeded my expectations. The audience connected with reggae and dancehall culture on a deep level — they knew the music, they felt the message, and they gave that energy back,” said XKhraig. 

Born in St. Catherine parish, Jamaica, XKhraig has lived for many years in Philadelphia. The different cultures in those locations influenced his sound, with his biggest musical inspiration being dancehall acts like Anthony B, Capleton and Beenie Man.

Boyz II Men, a mainstay of the Philly neo-soul movement, also made an impact on him.

“I came up singing a cappella in the Adventist church, so harmony and arrangement were always important. Migration later exposed me to more hip hop. The result is a sound that blends reggae’s rhythm and message with hip hop’s cadence and R&B’s vocal textures,” XKhraig noted.

At Rototom Colombia, he performed alongside several homegrown acts, some of whom specialize in dancehall-reggae and Spanish music. That sound, known as reggaeton, is popular throughout Latin America which is a big market for Jamaican artists.

XKhraig hopes his debut at the annual event will open doors for him in that region.

“The passion for reggae and dancehall in Spanish-speaking markets is undeniable. Breaking into that space is a clear goal for me,” he said. “I’m already working with producers in Colombia and I have a collaboration in progress. I want to connect with that audience authentically and contribute to the culture there.”