Beres Hammond and Tanya Stephens share a timeless ‘Love Story’. Reggae Tastemaker

BERES HAMMOND AND TANYA STEPHENS SHARE A TIMELESS ‘LOVE STORY’

When two of reggae’s most enduring voices finally share the studio, the result carries weight. Beres Hammond and Tanya Stephens, both celebrated for shaping Jamaican music across generations, come together on Love Story.

Produced by Arthur Wale and released through Free Willy Records with VPAL Music distribution, the single blends Hammond’s timeless romanticism with Stephens’ lyrical fire.

The track opens with Tanya Stephens setting the mood in a fairytale style. Soon, her vocals flow into Hammond’s, both reflecting on rekindled passion and the need to protect it. Stephens gives voice to second chances, while Hammond frames their connection with references to Romeo and Juliet or Bonnie and Clyde, pulling the listener into a sweeping ballad of resilience.

IF I EVER HAD A BUCKET LIST, THIS WOULD BE THE ONLY THING ON IT

Stephens describes the collaboration with deep gratitude. “As a writer, Beres is one of the beacons who has always stood ahead of me, lighting the way. Easy on hooks, easy on verses—catchy songs that stand the test of time.” For her, this recording is a career pinnacle: “If I ever had a bucket list, this would be the only thing on it.”

The release comes during a landmark period for Hammond. Earlier this month, he received the Reggae Icon Award at Jamaica’s Grand Gala, presented by Prime Minister Andrew Holness. 

At the same time, he is closing out his Forever Giving Thanks Tour 2025, joined by Marcia Griffiths, Tarrus Riley, Cham, Kes the Band, and Dean Fraser & The Blak Soil Band across the US East Coast.

ABOUT BERES HAMMOND

Beres Hammond and Tanya Stephens share a timeless ‘Love Story’. Reggae Tastemaker

Beres Hammond shaped lovers rock into a global touchstone with a voice that carries both intimacy and strength. Emerging with Zap Pow in the 1970s, he soon defined reggae balladry through classics like Tempted to Touch.

Across decades, collaborations with Buju Banton and Sean Paul, Grammy nominations, and tours confirm his role as reggae’s enduring romantic storyteller.

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ABOUT TANYA STEPHENS 

Beres Hammond and Tanya Stephens share a timeless ‘Love Story’. Reggae Tastemaker

Tanya Stephens emerged in the 1990s as a bold voice in dancehall, unafraid to challenge conventions. With albums like Gangsta Blues and Rebelution, she brought sharp social critique and feminist insight into reggae’s mainstream. 

Celebrated for tracks such as These Streets and What a Day, she remains a pioneering songwriter, honoured by JaRIA for her lyrical impact.

MORE FROM TANYA STEPHENS