Soja
Sunrise:
Arlington, Virginia, U.S.
SOJA is an American reggae band that has become one of the most respected and successful acts in modern reggae. Originating in **Arlington, Virginia**, the group’s name stands for **Soldiers of Jah Army**, reflecting their deep roots in reggae’s message of peace, unity, and consciousness. Formed in 1997 by high school friends including lead vocalist and guitarist **Jacob Hemphill**, bassist **Bobby Lee (Jefferson)**, and drummer **Ryan Berty**, SOJA has grown into an eight-member ensemble blending traditional reggae with rock, hip-hop, and roots influences, creating a sound that resonates with diverse audiences around the world. ([Wikipedia][1])
Over more than two decades, SOJA has built a fervent global following through dynamic live performances and a catalog of music that champions themes of love, hope, social change, and spiritual reflection. Their albums have consistently performed well on the **Billboard Reggae Albums Chart**, with notable releases like *Strength to Survive* topping the chart and *Beauty in the Silence* reaching the No. 2 spot and earning widespread acclaim. ([Jamaica Observer][2])
In **2022**, the band achieved a major milestone in their career by winning the **Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album** for *Beauty in the Silence* at the **64th Annual Grammy Awards**—a historic moment as one of the few non-Jamaican reggae acts to receive the honor. The album features collaborations with artists such as UB40, Slightly Stoopid, Stick Figure, and Rebelution, showcasing SOJA’s broad musical reach and collaborative spirit. ([Bernews][3])
SOJA’s live shows are known for their energetic and uplifting vibe, with the band touring extensively across the United States and internationally, bringing their message and music to fans on multiple continents. Their ability to blend meaningful lyrics with engaging rhythms has made them a staple at major festivals and concert venues, appealing not just to reggae purists but also to a wide audience who connect with their message of unity and positive