Tomorrow night, reggae, soul and jazz singer Marla Brown will be taking the Levitt AMP Carson City stage, inspiring attendees with her empowering and uplifting songs about global issues. This multitalented artist has delighted audiences across continents with her graceful dance moves and powerful vocals. Levitt AMP Carson City concertgoers get to experience this rising star first-hand!
Marla, the dancer
This London-based vocalist is the youngest of five and the daughter of the late Prince of Reggae, Dennis Emanuel Brown, best known for his smooth voice and 1972 hit single, “In My Pocket.” Before finding her niche in the music industry, Brown began her performing arts career as a dancer. She grew up learning ballet, street and contemporary dance, and her years of training and enduring passion for the art form led her around the world, performing across Europe for 14 years and becoming an ambassador for the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games. Check out the video below to hear Brown elaborate on these experiences herself.
Marla, the singer
After pursuing her passion for dance, in 2013 Brown was given the opportunity to sing as the opening act at London’s famous Jazz Café for Bunny “Striker” Lee’s 46th year anniversary in the music industry. This performance signaled the beginning of a new chapter in her career. A memorable performance honoring her father at the 2014 Dennis Brown Annual Tribute Show in Jamaica brought further momentum to her singing career—which has only continued to grow over time.
Today, Brown draws upon her father’s rich musical reggae legacy for inspiration, keeping his positive messages and passion for music alive. The angelic vocalist and powerful songwriter explained in an interview with Pauze Radio, “I am blessed to showcase the teachings of my dad, as my music is not just a representation of me, but one of my dad and our family, and that was very important to my dad, also. [It’s] only right I continue that representation and uphold the things we deem as important.” While her work reflects her father’s tone, Brown’s songs are characterized by messages of hope, love and encouragement, while covering timely global issues, such as weaponry, poverty and love for all. Below, watch Brown’s moving video for her heartfelt song “Better Days.”
Marla, the change agent
Outside of music, Brown has a passion for giving back. She works with Agape Kitchen in London, where they cook warm meals for families and individuals who cannot afford it. “I feel what we should do as one family on this earth is support and help each other up and listen to their stories. You need to embrace everyone’s circumstances and help them overcome, and a smile goes a long way, you’d be surprised,” Brown stated in an interview with United Reggae. Brown not only sings about wanting change, she inspires and empowers those around her to better their lives.
Brown is more than a vocalist—she’s a multitalented individual, making her mark on this world through her art and her actions. Carson City Levitteers are in for a special night of reggae music, fused with soul, jazz and heart. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket and spend the night with loved ones and the community for this free concert tomorrow night at 7pm!