Reggae singer Erral Matik is preparing to release “Journey To Zion,” the first single from his upcoming EP titled “Ras Wires For Real.” The track, written by English songwriter Simon Woodward, delves into themes of struggle, perseverance, and the pursuit of peace and purpose. Erral Matik described the song as a reflection on navigating life’s challenges in search of a better existence.
Erral Matik noted that although the song was inspired by Woodward’s personal experiences, he was able to connect with its message on a deeper level. “I didn’t try to imitate somebody else’s experience. I found the emotions in the song that connected with my own life and sang it from there,” he explained. For Erral Matik, the concept of Zion transcends a mere physical location, symbolizing spiritual freedom, inner peace, and the aspiration for a better life.
Simon Woodward, who hails from England, developed a passion for reggae music during the 1980s, citing the late Peter Tosh as his favorite reggae artist. He composed “Journey To Zion” in late 2025 during a period of personal reflection and change, drawing inspiration from his love for reggae and his experience of getting married in Jamaica in 2003. Initially, the song was intended for a digital reggae concept called Ras Wires—Born Digital, which Woodward created while exploring new creative tools.
However, after Erral Matik began performing the material, Woodward recognized the transformative potential of his voice. “Erral has authenticity and range in his voice. There’s genuine experience, emotion, and a natural reggae character in his delivery. He doesn’t simply sing the words — he brings them to life,” Woodward remarked.
The song’s material was later reworked with Jamaican musicians at BPM Jamdung Studio, under the guidance of Master “Making It Real” Wayne. Erral Matik emphasized that while the digital version laid the groundwork, the contributions from the musicians infused the project with a human touch, movement, and personality that made it feel authentic. “The digital version created the foundation, but the musicians added the human feel, movement, and personality that made it ‘For Real,’” he stated.
Woodward clarified that technology was utilized solely as a creative starting point and not as a substitute for live musicians. He credited Erral Matik, Master Wayne, and the Jamaican musicians for bringing a sense of humanity and cultural authenticity to the project. “Journey To Zion” was selected as the lead single because it was the first song Woodward composed for the Ras Wires project. Its evolution into a live recording signifies the transition from Ras Wires—Born Digital to Ras Wires For Real.
This project also marks a new chapter for Erral Matik, who previously performed under the name Swift Mereo. He expressed that the name Erral Matik reflects his current state of being — more mature, focused, and clear about the music and message he aims to convey. The release date and additional visual details for “Journey To Zion” will be announced in the near future.
Source: jamaicaobserver.com
