“So Many Things Could Have Gone Way Worse”: Jesse Royal Released from Hospital After Near-Fatal Crash Ahead of Third Studio Album

Reggae singer Jesse Royal has walked away from a near-fatal car accident, emerging from the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) with gratitude and relief. The incident left his vehicle severely damaged, though thankfully, the singer survived with the support of a medical team and the quick actions of those who came to his aid. Sharing his experience while wearing a neck brace on Instagram, Jesse Royal reflected on the fragility of life and the blessings that surround him. “I have always been a very grateful person… NOW it’s on a whole different level!!! So many things could have gone way worse but believe me when I say who Jah bless none can curse!” he wrote, encouraging fans to cherish loved ones and embrace life’s precious moments.

In his heartfelt post, Jesse also expressed profound thanks to his wife, medical staff, friends, and collaborators who supported him during the ordeal. “First of all my incredible Wife @kingkandi… so much love and respect for you and all the UWI staff,” he shared, before adding a nod to his broader circle of family and friends. The singer’s gratitude radiated as he described the “angels” that surrounded him immediately following the crash, a moment that clearly shifted his perspective and deepened his appreciation for life.

Amid the recovery and reflections, Jesse Royal revealed a silver lining for fans: the long-awaited release of his third studio album, NO PLACE LIKE HOME, is set for Friday, August 29. “With all that said I’ve been ‘nursing’ this project for far too long 😂 and this has inspired me to drop it now!!!” he announced. The project promises a blend of introspection and cultural resonance, featuring collaborations with Canadian soulstress Melanie Fiona, GRAMMY-winning lyricist Kabaka Pyramid, roots veteran Perfect Giddimani, and reggae crooner Romain Virgo on the stirring single “Hope.” With 10 tracks, the album combines previously released favourites such as “Blessing” — a tribute to the late Jo Mersa Marley — alongside new material designed to uplift and inspire listeners.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME reflects Jesse Royal’s dual role as both a modern reggae artist and a cultural curator. Earlier this year, he toured Brazil, performing in cities including São Paulo and Salvador, and launched the inaugural High Life Festival in Kingston, a celebration of reggae, ganja culture, and Caribbean sounds. The album embodies these experiences, balancing global perspective with deep roots in Jamaica’s traditions, exploring themes of resilience, love, and social consciousness that have become hallmarks of his work.

As fans prepare to stream the album this Friday, Jesse Royal’s recent ordeal adds a layer of poignancy to the release. His near-death experience serves as a reminder of life’s fragility, while his words and music underscore his enduring commitment to positivity, creativity, and the roots of reggae. In his own words: “Everything can change in the blink of an eye… take the time out to understand this thing called life is truly a gift!!!”