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When Switzerland based reggae artiste Cookie the Herbalist collaborated with legendary Jamaican producer Lee Scratch Perry in 2017, the experience marked a defining moment in his musical journey. Reflecting on the collaboration, Cookie described the recording session as deeply meaningful, noting that working with Perry carried both artistic and historical significance given Perry’s extraordinary legacy in global music.
Earlier this week, Cookie the Herbalist received a Billboard plaque recognizing the success of the Lee Perry collaboration EAZE, which appears on the Billboard charting compilation series Tropical House Cruises to Jamaica. The compilation topped the Billboard Reggae Albums chart for four consecutive weeks in 2018 and remained within the Top Ten for a total of eighteen weeks, underscoring its international reach and commercial impact.
The project, executive produced by Contractor Music, features an impressive roster of international and Caribbean artistes, including Ed Sheeran, Sean Paul, Stephen Marley, Damian Marley, Alonestar, Sean Kingston, Wyclef Jean, Chronixx, Mojo Morgan, Capleton and Sizzla. The inclusion of EAZE on the compilation placed Cookie the Herbalist alongside some of the most influential names in contemporary reggae and popular music.
Recalling the creation of the song, Cookie explained that the message behind EAZE remains as relevant today as it was at the time of recording. He said the track was written as a call for peace, encouraging listeners to move away from conflict, stress and violence, and to rediscover principles of morality, respect and compassion as a means of improving the world.
Cookie also reflected on his long standing relationship with Perry, describing him as both a mentor and a profound source of inspiration. He said that years of collaboration and international touring with Perry exposed him to invaluable lessons about music, art, spirituality and life. He expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to learn from Perry as a friend and musical guide, noting that his influence continues to shape his creative outlook.
Widely regarded as one of Europe’s most respected reggae and dancehall artistes, Cookie the Herbalist began his musical journey in Italy, where he sang in a church choir and developed an early appreciation for music. His artistic direction was shaped by reggae icons including Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff and Errol Dunkley.
Between 2000 and 2006, Cookie immersed himself in the European reggae scene, performing across Switzerland as a master of ceremonies and collaborating with various musical acts. His career gained significant momentum in 2007 when he joined Gideon Production, establishing himself as a dynamic live performer. During this period, he toured extensively throughout Europe with Jamaican reggae artiste Jah Mason and performed at major festivals such as Rototom Sunsplash and the Rumble Reggae Festival.
In January 2008, Cookie released his debut single Don’t You Tell Me, which received substantial airplay on Swiss radio stations. His first extended play release, The Good Weed, featured the popular track Cyaan Stop, which was later included in a Red Bull skiing video, further expanding his audience beyond reggae circles.
His debut studio album Like A Tree, released in 2010, featured the summer hit A Girl Like You, a collaborative love song with Jamaican singer Sophia Squire. The album also included Herbalist’s Tale, an anthem celebrating Rastafarian culture, recorded with Jah Mason.
In 2012, Cookie released his second studio album Stand Tall on the German label Rootdown Records. The project showcased collaborations with prominent reggae artistes including Sizzla, Luciano and Prezident Brown, solidifying his reputation as an international artiste capable of bridging European and Caribbean reggae traditions.
The Billboard recognition serves as both a career milestone and a testament to Cookie the Herbalist’s enduring contribution to reggae music, as well as the lasting influence of his collaboration with the late Lee Scratch Perry on the global stage.
English (US) ·