Royal Khaoz

Royal Khaoz stands as a unit whose sole purpose is to bring an energetic vibe through music. The unit as a band has evolved over the years they have been together and now believe they are what, and whom they started out to be. With all members native to Jamaica, Royal Khaoz presents their music in the form of fusion – hence, Reggae Fusion. With frontman Bama as the lead vocalist, solid drum and bass and a steady rhythm section, the band possesses the ability to represent reggae in its truest form and tastefully apply their own twist to its traditional and conventional forms which creates appeal that caters to a wider audience.

The band’s music is reminiscent of the old school sounds of reggae with a modern interpretation. Only formed since 2010 out of New York City, Royal Khaoz have had the opportunity of sharing the stage with renown legends of the trade such as Third World, The Wailers with Aston “Familyman” Barrett, Michael Rose, Sista Carrol, Yellowman, Luciano and a few more – gaining the respect of ones they grew up emulating with musical reverence. They also have graced many well known stages along the East coast such as BB Kings, Lucille’s, The Chance Theater, The Bearsville Theater, Club Helsinki, Stephen Talkhouse and The Shrine NYC – to name a few. They also have been featured on the Bowery scene giging joints like Rockwood Music Hall, Ella Lounge, Otto’s Shrunken Head, Sullivan Hall, plus a few more. Royal Khaoz have been a part of great showcases in the greater Hudson Valley region, heading local bills and working with renown promoters. They have headlined the Upstate Reggae’s Bob Marley Tribute Festival and Peter Tosh Tribute Festival and many local ventures like the Hudson valley magazine B&B Bash, Wingbowl 7 & 8, and many more. Local and regional colleges have played host to the quadrant on a couple occasions. Their debut album. “Life: The Journey”, was released in 2012 and they anticipate more music to be released later this year.

They represented the Bronx as borough champs in a citywide, band-based competition, “Battle of the Boroughs” over the spring of 2014 and excelled, though not going all the way, gained a wider audience. Compliments were commonly directed to their authenticity and refreshing, energetic and fun performances. This is certainly a product of the cohesion common friendship provides and regularity in playing shows together. Peak summer seasons you can find them at your local venues from the north as far as Ithaca to Saratoga to the Hamptons getting groovy while they supply authentic island sounds and vibrations. This speaks to their versatility to perform for any crowd – regardless of size and demography.



In an industry where easy routes can become preferences, Royal Khaoz finds it necessary to stay as true as possible to the old fashion ways of producing music in an effort to yield the same results. They hope to deliver music and performances that will last, standing the test of time. Whether you catch them at their next gig jamming or you listen to their CD, always remember they wish you would clear a space, get up and dance – consciously.

Jermaine “Bama” Williams – Lead Vocals/Percussion

Andre “DreTegs” Hawthorne – Keyboards/Synth/Vocals/Producer

Kavi “Cocoa” Forgie – Bass/Guitars/Vocals

Niel Brown – Drums/Percussion