Grammy-nominated reggae singer Wayne Wonder, having finally secured his release from VP Records, is ready to soar and is eagerly anticipating a wealth of success.
The singer has been battling challenges which have resulted in his career being put temporarily on pause for close to two years.
"It was quite unfortunate that the dispute with the record company (VP) escalated, but all that is water under the bridge now," a relieved Wayne Wonder explained.
"I am ready to work. As a matter of fact, it's more appropriate to say that the work is continuing and I know that all Wayne Wonder fans are going to love it," the artiste christened Von Wayne Charles declared with more than a tinge of excitement in his voice.
Already, Wayne has released a few new singles, working with top reggae and dancehall producers. He is also wearing the producer's cap himself.
The song, If I Ever, produced by Wayne Wonder on his own SINGSO/NYAMCASH label and mixed by Tony Kelly, has been doing well on iTunes, debuting at number 4 on the iTunes Reggae Charts.
If I Ever has also been getting excellent reaction from radio and sound systems, and may very well be on its way to being another signature tune for the smooth-voiced singer.
Wonder has also teamed up with dancehall group, T.O.K. for a song which is making a loud statement in Jamaica and overseas. titled Girl Dem Follow, the song was produced by Stephen 'Di Genius' McGregor on his new Winnings rhythm.
The artiste has already begun his revival by going to Japan. There he will be doing six shows. The tour, which began on Saturday ends on Sunday.
He will be performing at venues in Tokyo, Zurich, Kyoto, Alchi, Ibaraki and Numazu.
Wayne Wonder has enjoyed quite a bit of success in reggae music. His career exploded globally in 2003 when his album No Holding Back and the single No Letting Go were released by Atlantic Records.
No Letting Go went as high as 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 Pop chart in the United States and the album, received a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album, a MOBO Award in the United Kingdom (UK), three BMI Urban awards, and a live performance on NBC Television's Saturday Night Live.
The follow-up single and video Bounce Along made it to 12 on the UK pop charts.
Wonder's inspired version of Hold Me Now (originally recorded by the Thompson Twins) appeared in the 2004 movie 50 First Dates (starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore). The song was produced by No Doubt's Tony Kanal with a video directed by Gil Green for Madonna's Maverick Records label.
The singer also anchored the hit track Anything Goes (w/ CNN: Capone & N.O.R.E and Lexxus) for the Def Jamaica compilation, which received a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album.
The popularity of the songs, along with the many hits Wonder has had were the driving force behind an extensive world tour with his Entourage Band in 2004-05. That tour included performances in North America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Africa.