Richie Flo is in a ‘Winning Season’ With a New Vibe

A diehard reggae artist, Richie Flo recently stepped out of his comfort zone to work with pop singer/musician Truth Over Illusion (TOI) and Cleon Beckford. 

Target is the name of his song with TOI, while Calling is his track with Cleon Beckford. After recording reggae/dancehall songs for most of his 20-year career, Richie Flo welcomed the change in pace.

“I'm an artist first, therefore experimenting with other genres to create a new sound is enticing for me,” he said.

Like Richie Flo, TOI and Cleon Beckford live in Canada. TOI was born there to Jamaican and Trinidadian parents, while Beckford was born in Montego Bay, but moved to Toronto as a child.

Target and Calling are the first major projects for Richie Flo since the release of St. Thomas, his album, which was released in late 2025. That set is named for his home parish in Jamaica.

On Target, he does a dancehall toast which complements TOI’s Rhythm And Blues phrasing.

“TOI and I connected through music. From the first time I heard her sing, I knew we would have worked together. She knows her stuff so the respect is there,” said Richie Flo. “I got the beat for Target from a producer named Dutty Juvii. After recording the chorus and verse, I sent it to TOI for some feedback and instead, she told me she's on the song!”

Calling, which also blends dancehall/reggae with R&B, marks Beckford’s debut as an artist. He is known in Toronto reggae circles as a drummer who has backed top acts such as Marcia Griffiths, Admiral Tibet, Exco Levi and Alison Hinds.