When I begin working with an artist, they quickly become family. Through weeks of conversations, collaborations, and shared experiences, bonds form that go beyond professional connections. I started working with veteran reggae artist Madi Simmons in 2021, and from the very beginning, I knew he was someone extraordinary. It didn’t take long for him to become an essential part of my life. Madi had a way of reaching out almost every day—whether it was to “check in,” ask for feedback on a song, or share his thoughts on politics and the state of the world. Those conversations often sparked ideas for his music, as his creativity was deeply intertwined with his observations and reflections. Thankfully, we saw eye-to-eye on most things, so our discussions flowed effortlessly. When Madi shared that he wasn’t feeling well, I wasn’t prepared for how swiftly cancer would take him away.
“Hailing from the United States, Madi Simmons entered the performing scene at the age of 16. He started out playing the drums, songwriting, and singing. Throughout his life, Madi’s key musical influences have been Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, John Bonham (Drummer), Bob Marley, and Peter Tosh, and that’s just to name a few. There are many other influences that you can hear in his voice.
Madi has a wide musical range and can send your mind to a nostalgic place……with vibes that remind us of Black Uhuru and a voice that combines Gregory Issac, Peter Tosh, and Dennis Brown into one, Madi Simmons is still pushing out his sweet reggae music. Mainly known for playing drums and having a strong vocal delivery, Madi learned over the years to perfect that one drop among other styles, though, as you will hear, his preference is to use his voice.
He has toured quite a bit in the last 20 years, performing on stages from the Pacific Northwest, California, Hawaii, and the Midwest to the West Coast. Madi has appeared at major events such as Cougar Mountain Fest, Benbow Summer Art Fair, Unity Fest, North Country Fair, and even Reggae On The River as an Emcee and performer. Now, he is sparking interest in Europe and other parts of the world
Madi was also voted best indie artist on two different showcases, Review Indie
http://reviewindie.com/2021/05/madi-simmons-is-an-award-winning-reggae-singer-songwriter/
and Top Indie Artist 2018 on Shyrick Radio
Madi Simmons has a catalog of albums dating back many years including Get You Some 2005, One Love EP 2008, Reggae Against Landmines – Volume 1 2011, Reggae Against Landmines – Volume 2 2011, Reggae Against Landmines, Vol. 3 EP 2012
My Time Is Now – EP 2012, A Time For Love – EP 2012, Dread & Alive Kindah, Vol. 4 2012
Madi Simmons continues to “speak to you through the music” on current issues that touch his heart.”
During one of our many heartfelt conversations, Madi once confided in me that he didn’t believe he would ever achieve true fame in his lifetime. He speculated that recognition might come only after he was gone. What he didn’t realize was just how deeply he had already touched so many lives. In the hours following the announcement of his passing, my phone was flooded with calls and messages from people sharing their grief and recounting their personal stories about Madi. They spoke of his compassion, his willingness to share his own struggles to uplift others, and his daily calls to check in on those who were sick, grieving, or simply in need of encouragement.
I had the privilege of spending time with Madi at the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival in 2023 and Reggae On The River in 2024—two festivals where he had performed and served as an MC in previous years. The love and respect he received from everyone he encountered at these events spoke volumes about the kind of person he was.
Madi, your presence will be deeply missed. It was a true honor to work alongside you and call you a friend. Until we meet again, rest easy, my brother.
Reggaewerx PR LLC 