Two of Jamaica’s most revered voices in reggae, Beres Hammond and Tanya Stephens, have come together for the first time in the studio to deliver Love Story, a brand-new single released today, August 29, through Free Willy Records and distributed by VPAL Music.
Produced by Arthur Wale, Love Story unfolds like a romantic fable. The track opens with Tanya Stephens weaving a fairy tale-esque narrative that sets the tone for this soulful duet. What follows is a heartfelt journey of rediscovered love, blending Stephens’ lyrical prowess with Hammond’s signature honeyed vocals.
Stephens brings a reflective tone to the song, revisiting the emotional pull of an old flame. Meanwhile, Hammond invokes iconic couples like Romeo and Juliet and Bonnie and Clyde to underscore the enduring power of love, a poetic framing that only he could deliver with such warmth and conviction.
This collaboration marks a milestone in reggae history. Though both artists have individually shaped the genre over decades, Love Story is their first official studio recording together, a surprise many fans never knew they were waiting for.
The release also comes at a pivotal time for Hammond, who was honoured with the Reggae Icon Award by Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness during the nation’s Grand Gala on August 6. The award celebrates his extraordinary contribution to reggae music and his influence on generations worldwide.
Hammond, now in the midst of his Forever Giving Thanks Tour 2025, has been lighting up venues along the U.S. East Coast. The tour features a powerful lineup of Caribbean talent, including Marcia Griffiths, Tarrus Riley, Cham, Kes the Band, and the incomparable Dean Fraser & The Blak Soil Band.
Adding to the festive mood, Hammond celebrated his birthday just yesterday, on August 28, making Love Story something of a gift both to fans and from the reggae legend himself.
As of today, Love Story is available for streaming on all major platforms. With Stephens and Hammond joining forces, this duet is already magic.
