Words by Kaya.lah
Currently riding a wave created by his heated R&B single “Situationships,” R&B hitmaker Verse Simmonds takes it back to his Caribbean roots for the remix. On a dancehall and EDM infused hybrid, he brings along the powerhouse pair of Timothy and Theron Thomas, aka fellow Virgin Islanders, R.City. In case you didn’t know, the duo’s hit “Locked Away” featuring Adam Levine is one of the top charting pop songs of 2015 in the U.S., and internationally. “R.City and I are brothers from another mother!” Verse tells LargeUp. “We met when we were in middle school and have been best friends ever since.”
As a singer, songwriter and producer (and Grammy award nominee), Mr. Simmonds has been on his game for a hot minute. With the ability to move effortlessly from behind the boards to inside the booth, he has formulated a substantial catalog. The Rock City, St. Thomas native has worked with many heavy hitters including Rihanna, Snoop, Akon, Nicki and Kelly Rowland, with whom he shared the smash hit “Boo Thang.” He’s also written songs for Chris Brown including “New Flame” featuring Usher and Rick Ross, which was nominated for Best R&B Song at this year’s 57th Grammy Awards.
“Situationships” provides an honest perspective on many relationships today, as Simmonds explores alternatives that could allow both parties to be more open about their intentions. The remix also features up-and-coming singer Orlando, Florida singer Raheem Brown, who holds his own amongst lofty company. It is produced by the Dictatorz, who are out of Florida as well.
Stream “Situationships (Remix)” below, check out that hefty catalog from Verse Simmonds here, and look out for more Caribbean vibes from him in the near future. “It has always been a plan of mine to create a full body of work specifically geared towards my Caribbean roots and you can expect a lot more from me in that vein in 2016,” Verse says.
And for a primer on Virgin Islands music (including Verse Simmonds), according to the R City boys, see their “Rock City Soundtrack” here.