Kiddus I and Camille Bazbaz Unveil Long-Awaited Album ‘The Salmon’ After Nearly Two Decades

Two veteran artists from Jamaica and France finally release their collaborative project, a soulful, genre-bending record born from nearly 20 years of friendship and musical exploration.

After nearly two decades of friendship, experimentation, and countless studio sessions, Kiddus I and Camille Bazbaz have finally delivered their joint album, ‘The Salmon.’ The record, a melting pot of soul, blues, reggae, and pop, showcases Kiddus I’s gnomic lyrics over a lush, eclectic backing that highlights his versatility beyond traditional reggae. The album’s long gestation echoes the patience and passion that went into every track, making it a rare treasure born from genuine creative chemistry.

The story of ‘The Salmon’ begins in the early 2000s, when Bazbaz, a French musician known for his collaborations with Jamaican artists like Winston McAnuff, first met Kiddus I through Winston’s influence. According to Kiddus I and Camille Bazbaz Unveil Long, their initial connection was fueled by mutual admiration—Bazbaz was inspired by Kiddus’ deep, soulful voice, and Kiddus appreciated Bazbaz’s eclectic approach to blending genres. Over years of casual studio jamming and shared ideas, the project slowly evolved into a full-fledged album, capturing their spontaneous, no-pressure approach to music making.

The album’s creation was as organic as the friendship behind it. According to the original report, kiddus describes their sessions as free-flowing and friendship-driven, often happening in Bazbaz’s studio in Paris or during Kiddus’ visits to France. They didn’t set out with a strict plan but let the music and their vibes guide them. Kiddus recalls, “Every time we met, we just vibed and created. It’s about friendship, about expressing what’s in us without limits.” This approach results in a record that feels unfiltered, joyous, and rooted in a shared love of musical exploration.

The record’s sound is a departure for Kiddus I, known primarily for his reggae roots and work with Inna De Yard. According to coverage of the story, bazbaz’s production adds a contemporary sheen, blending soulful melodies with bluesy guitar lines and subtle reggae rhythms. Kiddus’ lyrics, often philosophical and poetic, find a new space here—more introspective, yet delivered with the same raw emotion that has defined his career since the 1970s. The album stands as a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration and lifelong friendship.

The collaborative effort culminates in ‘The Salmon,’ which Kiddus I describes as a ‘child’ that finally sees the light after years of nurturing. The project’s title hints at themes of transformation and renewal—an apt metaphor for a record that’s been in the making since the early 2000s. Kiddus and Bazbaz’s candid conversation reveals a deep respect and genuine camaraderie, with Kiddus emphasizing how their work goes beyond music—it's about friendship and shared visions. Their story underscores how patience and authenticity can produce something truly special in the often hurried world of music.

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