Jamaican actor, educator, and Grammy-nominated musician Hector “Roots” Lewis made his Hollywood debut in Bob Marley: One Love earlier this year as drummer Carlton “Carly” Barrett. He reflects on his journey with Shelly-Ann Inniss
What’s been your experience since Bob Marley: One Love’s debut?
I’ve been experiencing way more support and engagement from people and communities all over the world — and, most of all, back home in Jamaica. It exceeded my expectations because I was so consumed with the process of making the art … Being an actor is a totally different world and space … I love sharing a great legacy like Carlton “Carly” Barrett. I am so grateful I was able to be a vehicle for that story alongside some of the best in the business.
Barrett was referred to as “the alpha & omega of reggae drumming”. How did portraying him affect you personally and professionally?
It was truly an honour to tell the story of Carlton Barrett. While there are theoretical approaches to drumming, he transcended that, and basically played what he felt. His sound came from listening to multiple genres of music, especially the music in America like jazz, funk, soul, disco.
Studying Carlton’s legacy brought me right back to my days at Edna Manley College of the Visual & Performing Arts. I have fond memories of creating a timetable around the project … it taught me to appreciate the contributions he and Jamaican culture have made to the global musical landscape.
It also taught me to be brave with my musicianship and to live with intention. That was further reinforced by speaking with his nephew, Aston Barrett Jr, during the making of Bob Marley: One Love. Carly lived a life of purpose … one that didn’t need him to be gratified in materialism, but to be enriched by the power of music.
After being around so many influential people through your life and career, who’s one person you wish you could work with and why?
The list is very long, and I’ve already been afforded the opportunity to work alongside some dream collaborators. As I’ve gotten older, I really wish I could have worked with my mum [singer Barbara Jones, described as the “Billie Holliday of reggae”]. I always think of producing her music, harmonising with her, applying some of the sound advice she’d given me, especially during the height of her career, and adding to the legacy that she built. I hope I’m able to continue doing this in everything I create.
Are you currently working on any projects?
My latest single called “Possibility” dropped on 31 May and was created with a very talented producer and engineer from California called Johnny Cosmic. It represents a deliberate step forward in evolving my sound and not limiting my artistry to genre; people will hear a lot more about it in my album that comes soon.
On the production side of things, there’s a very special artist called KA$E I’ve started to work with. It’s my way of getting closer to the heart of the music. I’m really excited to show that side to my art. Beyond that, I’m mostly practising different instruments, engaging in several writing sessions at home and the studio.
I have become so much braver with my art and more innovative with my attitude towards music in the last few years. Music is so much more than my passion: it is my life’s work, shaped by a bloodline of talent. So I’m much more focused on sound, sonics, vocal delivery, vocal feeling. My evolution is about sharpening my ear and pouring my heart and experiences into what I do.
Any final words?
I just want to thank everyone who’ve supported my journey over the years. It is really important for me to share in community as I create art. Music is healing, but it is also a journey of self-discovery. I’m excited to see where the path takes me, honoured that music continues to lead me on a path of righteousness, and I’m grateful for every step along the way.