Indika Reggae Band: Midwest’s Reggae Powerhouse
Since debuting on Chicago’s vibrant music scene in the mid-1990s, Indika Reggae Band has established itself as a cornerstone of reggae in the Midwest. Founded by Samuel “Peter” Beaumont, the band originally featured a lineup of Jamaican musicians, laying a strong foundation for their authentic reggae sound. Over time, Indika transformed into a multicultural ensemble, incorporating talents from Belize, Haiti, and the United States. This rich blend of influences has enhanced their musical diversity and broadened their appeal.
Since 2001, the band has been fronted by the charismatic U-Roy Muslar, whose energy and versatility have been instrumental in shaping Indika’s unique sound. Their performances are a dynamic mix of reggae, soca, calypso, punta, dancehall, R&B, jazz, and kompa, captivating audiences across the Midwest and southern United States. Indika has graced renowned Chicago venues such as The Wild Hare, the United Center, and Navy Pier, in addition to performing at festivals throughout Illinois, Arkansas, Kansas, Michigan, Indiana, and Minnesota.
The band’s excellence has been recognized with several prestigious honors, including three consecutive Martin Intercultural Music Awards for Best Reggae Band and being named Chicago’s Best Reggae Band in 2007. Indika’s reputation as a premier backing band is further underscored by collaborations with reggae luminaries like Gregory Isaacs, Luciano, Calypso Rose, Wayne Wonder, and Richie Spice.
Whether headlining their own shows or supporting international stars, Indika Reggae Band consistently delivers performances that radiate authenticity and passion. Their unwavering commitment to musical excellence and cultural fusion continues to inspire and entertain diverse audiences, solidifying their role as a leading force in the reggae music scene.
Since 2001, the band has been fronted by the charismatic U-Roy Muslar, whose energy and versatility have been instrumental in shaping Indika’s unique sound. Their performances are a dynamic mix of reggae, soca, calypso, punta, dancehall, R&B, jazz, and kompa, captivating audiences across the Midwest and southern United States. Indika has graced renowned Chicago venues such as The Wild Hare, the United Center, and Navy Pier, in addition to performing at festivals throughout Illinois, Arkansas, Kansas, Michigan, Indiana, and Minnesota.
The band’s excellence has been recognized with several prestigious honors, including three consecutive Martin Intercultural Music Awards for Best Reggae Band and being named Chicago’s Best Reggae Band in 2007. Indika’s reputation as a premier backing band is further underscored by collaborations with reggae luminaries like Gregory Isaacs, Luciano, Calypso Rose, Wayne Wonder, and Richie Spice.
Whether headlining their own shows or supporting international stars, Indika Reggae Band consistently delivers performances that radiate authenticity and passion. Their unwavering commitment to musical excellence and cultural fusion continues to inspire and entertain diverse audiences, solidifying their role as a leading force in the reggae music scene.
U-roy Mushlah
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U-Roy Muslar (Lead Vocalist)
Born in Belize City, Belize, Uroy began singing at the age of 3, developing a lifelong passion for music despite facing hardships in school, where his love for singing was often punished. In 1998, he moved to Chicago, where he was quickly hired by a Belizean band. After a few years of performing, he joined Indika Reggae Band in 2001 as their lead singer, becoming a key figure in Chicago’s reggae scene. Uroy is known for his powerful, soulful voice and dynamic stage presence. His musical influences include legends like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Alpha Blondy, Lucky Dube, and Beres Hammond. Today, he continues to share positive vibrations through his performances, inspiring audiences with messages of love, unity, and resilience. |
Gerald Toto Alfred
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Gerald 'Toto' Alfred (Guitar/Bass)
Gerald "Toto" Alfred, born and raised in Carrefour, Haiti, spent over 20 years as the lead guitarist for the legendary Haitian roots band Boukman Eksperyans, touring the world and helping shape their iconic sound. Seeking to expand his musical horizons, Toto moved to Chicago, where he became the guitarist for Indika Reggae Band, one of the Midwest's most acclaimed reggae groups. Indika blends reggae with soca, calypso, jazz, and kompa, performing at major venues like The Wild Hare and Navy Pier. Toto also leads his own project, Kreyòl Roots, fusing Haitian rhythms with jazz and reggae. A versatile musician, he continues to share the rich musical traditions of Haiti with audiences across the U.S. and beyond. |
Champain
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Champagne (Drums)
Hailing from Westmoreland, Jamaica, Champagne is a dynamic, self-taught drummer who fell in love with music as a child by watching local bands perform. He developed his skills playing in his church at 13, and later performing at resorts and backing well-known Jamaican musicians. After moving to the United States, Champagne continued his musical journey, becoming a sought-after drummer in the local reggae scene. His authentic Jamaican sound and dedication to his craft led him to join Indika Reggae Band. With Indika, Champagne brings vibrant energy to every performance. His dynamic style and deep-rooted connection to reggae bring every performance to life, carrying forward the spirit and tradition of his Jamaican roots. |
Greg
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Greg (Bass/Keys)
Greg, a talented musician from Orange Walk Town, Belize, has been captivating audiences with his versatile artistry since his arrival in Chicago in 1998. Now the bass player for the renowned Indika Reggae Band, Greg seamlessly blends reggae, soca, punta rock, and Latin sounds to showcase his Belizean heritage and diverse musical influence. Known for his mastery of multiple instruments and powerful performances, he channels his passion for music into creating rich, authentic Caribbean rhythms that resonate deeply with audiences. His exceptional vocal and instrumental abilities, spanning percussion, keyboards, and beyond, establish Greg as a dynamic one-man orchestra. A true artist at heart, Greg continues to inspire listeners and contribute to Indika’s energetic multicultural sound with dedication and flair. |
Feng
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Feng (Keys)
Born and raised in Belize, Feng began playing music at age 14 and has now dedicated his entire life to developing his unique style on keys. Coming from a musical family his father and sister are both guitarists but Feng found his passion in the keys. He built his foundation with some of Belize’s top bands, including Coolie Rebel Band, New Sensation Band, and the legendary Gilharry 7 Band. After moving to the U.S. 15 years ago, he continued to expand his sound, performing with local reggae groups like Dub This, Machine Reggae, and leading his own project. Feng’s connection with Indika spans years, but in recent times he’s taken on a full-time role on keys. His style blends smooth reggae melodies, deep roots, and Belizean soul. Always rooted in love for the music, Feng brings heart, energy, and a signature vibe that helps drive Indika’s powerful sound. |
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Percussion
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Other Artists
Courtney Panton
Courtney Panton (Bass)
Born in Port Antonio, Jamaica Courtney started his musical career playing keyboard in a gospel band at age 12. He picked up the bass at age 16 and by age 19 went to play on cruise ships for the next 7 years. After moving to Chicago, he joined Indika band in 1997.
Under his leadership Indika has performed extensively throughout the midwest and has backed an array of top reggae acts including Gregory Isaacs, Everton Blender, Frankie Paul, Ritchie Spice, Richie Stevens, Christopher Martin, Luciano, and Gramps Morgan just to name a few.
Born in Port Antonio, Jamaica Courtney started his musical career playing keyboard in a gospel band at age 12. He picked up the bass at age 16 and by age 19 went to play on cruise ships for the next 7 years. After moving to Chicago, he joined Indika band in 1997.
Under his leadership Indika has performed extensively throughout the midwest and has backed an array of top reggae acts including Gregory Isaacs, Everton Blender, Frankie Paul, Ritchie Spice, Richie Stevens, Christopher Martin, Luciano, and Gramps Morgan just to name a few.
Peter
Peter (Keyboard)
Ghana.
Ghana.