Empress Miriam Simone
International reggae artiste Empress Miriam Simone is bringing the message of conscious reggae to a wider audience with the release of her seven-track EP, Rise Up.
Released on October 23, 2026, the project blends roots reggae, dub influences and soundsystem culture while exploring themes of spiritual strength, Black womanhood, cultural identity, gratitude and social consciousness.
The EP premiered on Reggaeville and has already gained recognition within the international reggae community. Three songs from the project also secured positions on ReggaeVIP’s Top 100 Reggae playlist for the fourth week of October 2026. “Stop the Shooting” placed at No. 5, followed by “Satta Massagana” at No. 16 and “So Thankful” at No. 57.
‘Rise Up’ Carries a Message of Empowerment
The title track, “Rise Up,” draws inspiration from Miriam Simone’s experience raising her three sons in the Netherlands. Through the song, she shares the hopes and prayers she has for her children while encouraging young people, particularly men, to believe in their abilities and work towards becoming the best versions of themselves.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, the reggae artiste explained that its lyrics reflect the lessons she teaches her sons as they grow up in a European environment.
“I am a mother of 3 sons raising them in Europe within a Babylon system. These words in the song are words I teach them, praying for them to manifest themselves within the highest and best versions of themselves. I believe in them as they keep rising up,” she said.
A Celebration of Black Womanhood, Peace and Gratitude
Beyond its title track, Rise Up explores several important social and cultural themes.
“Black Woman” celebrates Black womanhood and recognises the strength and resilience of African ancestry. Meanwhile, “Stop the Shooting,” originally released in 2022, delivers a strong message against gun violence and calls for an end to senseless shootings.
The project also features “Ceasefire (Dub),” a soundsystem-inspired track that reinforces its message of peace, while “So Thankful” expresses appreciation and gratitude.
Other songs, including “Satta Massagana” and “Satta On Ya (Dub),” further strengthen the EP’s roots reggae foundation.
Empress Miriam Simone’s Connection to Ghana
The release comes at an important point in Miriam Simone’s cultural journey, following her installation as Amammerehemaa of Adukrom in Ghana’s Akuapem Traditional Area.
Her connection to Ghana adds another dimension to her musical journey, bringing together reggae music, African heritage and a commitment to positive social change.
Reflecting on her creative philosophy, Miriam Simone described music as something that requires patience and time to develop.
“Music has a soul and is like a seed and takes time to grow into a tree,” she stated.
‘Rise Up’ EP Tracklist
The seven-track project was produced by Sound System Club Ltd. and digitally distributed by VPAL Music, the distribution arm of VP Records.
The tracklist is as follows:
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Satta Massagana
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Satta On Ya (Dub)
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Black Woman
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Rise Up
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Stop the Shooting
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Ceasefire (Dub)
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So Thankful
Music videos for “Rise Up” and “Black Woman” are also planned as part of the ongoing promotional campaign, while exclusive limited-edition vinyl editions are expected in 2027.
With its combination of conscious lyrics, roots reggae rhythms, dub influences and cultural storytelling, Empress Miriam Simone’s Rise Up EP encourages listeners across generations to embrace their identity, recognise their potential and contribute to a more peaceful world.
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