Fortunate Youth © 2012
the Youth
Fortunate Youth is a collaboration of South Bay Reggae stand-outs. Rising from various bands, they’ve created a phenomenal 7-piece masterpiece bringing more fire to the stage than ever before. Combining rootsy vibes and unique bass lines united with multiple harmonies, boisterous guitar solos, and heavy keys separates Fortunate Youth from every other mainstream Reggae band. With their high energy approach and positive stage presence they provide an unforgettable show to every music fan. Fortunate Youth’s objective is to ensure a performance that leaves you feeling euphoric and curious of what might happen at the next show.
In 2011 they supported Tribal Seeds on their nationwide Tribal Youth Tour to spread their conscious music to the nation. F.Y. linked up The Green, from Hawaii, for a Midwest/Westcoast run before jumping back in the studio to record. They have hit the masses promoting only their 6-song EP titled “Up-Lifted EP” and just released their full-length album, “IRIE STATE OF MIND” on July 1, 2011. Fortunate Youth will also be touring very heavily through 2011 including a Naitonwide CD Release Summer Tour.
Upon Releasing their full-length album they quickly rose to #2 on the iTunes Reggae Charts and also locked in a #13 position on Billboard Top 100 Reggae Albums. Receiving great praise for early success Fortunate Youth strives to spread their interpretation of Reggae music to Music Lovers worldwide.
They have had the honor to share the stage with bands such as Groundation, Toots & The Maytals, The Green, The Wailers, Katchafire, Tribal Seeds, The Expendables, Pepper, Dirty Heads, Natural Vibrations, Tomorrows Bad Seeds and Sashamon.
in the News
"Released in January 2010, this is one album that I am glad to get my hands on. “Up-Lifed EP” is an impressive reggae album that was put together by seven talented artists born and raised in Los Angeles, California. It sounds clean, professionally constructed and vibrant. They keep it fresh and energetic, but are not afraid to slow it down to bring a nice rootsy reggae feel. Each track flows right into the other; the placement of the songs is beautifully concise. There are a variety of sounds and instruments, but it is easy to hear Fortunate Youth’s unique interpretation of California Reggae. This album definitely sounds awesome out of the speakers of my car but when I heard it live I definitely had to approach the band and connect with them. There is one thing for certain- this band definitely has a bright future ahead of them. You can find this CD on iTunes, cdbaby.com and reverb nation. –Danielle Negrin www.myspace.com/fortunateyouth www.fortunatemusic.com "
Danielle Negrin - YourMusic Magazine
"Fortunate Youth has sprouted straight from our own backyards, and while Sourgrass finds many of its roots planted here in the South Bay as well, they now come to us from Santa Cruz. Fortunate Youth is a fluidly talented reggae and dub outfit, psyching us out with keyboards, brass, and the smell of skunks in the air. Sourgrass is a powerful rock & roll band, deeply based in blues, funk, jam, and sexy moves. For more information on the Autism Benefit show, visit www.eatplaygive.com. To learn more about Sourgrass, Fortunate Youth, and Diego’s Umbrella, and to hear their music, check them out on www.DirtyHippieRadio.com. Listen, learn, read on…"
Jeff Vincent - Autism Benefit Show in Boogtown
"Reggae/roots band Fortunate Youth will be opening for the legendary Wailers at Brixton Saturday, March 13. The band has become a local favorite amongst reggae area bands and will be performing songs from its recent EP, “Up Lifted.” The reaction to the band thus far has been very supportive from the South Bay music fans. “It’s been pretty amazing how quickly their draw has picked up,” said band manager Jared Segawa. “We’ve been so aggressive with this band on the promotion end. The band has played with a lot of legendary acts in the past eight months like Toots & the Maytals and The Wailers.” Fortunate Youth will be hitting the road this summer playing various festivals, and hop on dates with bands like The Expendables and Tribal Seeds. In addition to touring as much as possible in 2010, the band plans on releasing its debut album as well. For more information on Fortunate Youth, visit www.fortunatemusic.com."
Shaun Hague - Rockin Beach Cities- Fortunate Youth
Dan Kelly
Lead Vocals
Travis Walpole
Percussion/Vox
Jered Draskovich
Keys/Bass
Greg Gelb
Bass/Guitar
Corey Draskovich
Guitar/Bass/Keys
Jordan
Drums