‘Breath’ of Fresh Air: Da’Ville Talks Return to Music, More Passionate Than Ever

Veteran singer Da’Ville reflects on his 2000s success, the lessons learned during a lengthy hiatus, and his relishing return to music, calling it “exactly what I need at the moment” as he prepares to release his new album Breath on August 22

Da'ville steps up after long hiatus

It’s been over a decade since reggae, dancehall, and R&B singer Da’Ville last made waves on the music scene. Once dominating airwaves and dance floors with timeless hits like “Always on My Mind,” “This Time I Promise,” and his memorable duet “All My Life” with the Queen of Reggae, Marcia Griffiths, Da’Ville’s voice was a staple at every party in the early 2000s.

Now, after a lengthy hiatus, Da’Ville is stepping back into the spotlight, more passionate than ever about returning to the craft he loves.

“It was so long, it wasn't easy, but when you love something like music like I do, it’s only natural that you wanna come back, and come do it,” he shared in an interview with Kaboom Magazine. “‘Sunshine Days’ is the perfect reintroduction. It says everything. It’s exactly what I need at the moment.”

"Music it’s exactly what I need at the moment.”

“I know it’s the right song. It’s more than a feeling,” he added. “It’s the first song from the album, Sunshine Day,” he revealed.

Reflecting on how challenging it was to step away from the spotlight, Da’Ville (Given name Orville Thomas) opened up about the lessons he learned during his time off. “Mi have a different perspective now after all this hiatus on how I look at music and things,” the U.S.-based singer explained. “On how I allow people in with certain things, ’cause I put my faith in the wrong people and the wrong organization. Gotta be more careful.”

“I had to step away to refocus on my wife, my family, and myself. It definitely taught me a whole lot. I no longer value certain things the same—not just in terms of success, but in terms of real value.”

Kingston-born Da’Ville, the son of veteran deejay Jah Thomas, began his musical journey in the 1990s but rose to prominence in the early to mid-2000s. He hit paydirt with Always on My Mind, a lovers rock anthem that became one of the biggest hits of its time. It marked the start of a golden period for Da’Ville, one that saw him delivering a string of follow-up hits and expanding his presence into new markets.

“The early 2000s was a different time for me. it felt like a whole movement,” he recalled. “It was like a free throw to find myself, find my niche, my purpose. I used to singjay, bring some dancehall energy, lovers rock vibes—it was a whole different vibe. I still relish that experience ’cause I learned so much from those times.”

"The early 2000s was a different time for me. it was like a free throw to find myself, find my niche, my purpose. I used to singjay, bring some dancehall energy, lovers rock vibes."

Back then, the singer also embraced opportunities to reach audiences beyond the Caribbean and North America. Japan, where he has maintained a loyal fanbase for years, remains one of his strongest markets.

“We’re always doing what we need to do, reconnecting with the fans, whether in Japan or anywhere else,” he shared. “I’ve presented myself up front and center again. I know I’ve been out of line for some time. Even though I stayed relevant behind the scenes in different areas, now it’s about the plan we have today. We’ve got things in the making to reconnect—not just with longtime fans, but also with those hearing Da’Ville for the first time.”

In an era where the digital age largely controls the music landscape, Da’Ville remains true to his roots, often turning to timeless influences for inspiration. He credits reggae legends for grounding his sound and spirit. “These are the artists that I listen to a whole lot, on a daily basis more time to catch up. Bob Marley, Jr. Gong, Stephen Marley, and Collie Buddz,” he shared.

Da’Ville reflects on time away, but returns with a New purpose

Determined to reach as many ears as possible with his upcoming album Breath, set for release on August 22, Da’Ville has his sights firmly set on a series of stage shows, a promotional run, and is now supported by a refreshed, focused team.

“We're going forward, we've got plans. This is the moment, the time is now. We have new music, we have videos, the album dropping. The album will be out, finally.”

The title track, Breath, leads the 12-track body of work, which is also set to include the silky-smooth “Sunshine Days,” released in July, and potentially a reggae version of Swedish pop group Ace of Base’s “Everytime It Rains.”

“I can’t wait for the people dem to hear what’s coming”

“It’s from the heart to the universe and the fans dem—real music lovers, real Da’Ville fans,” he said. “I mean, we plan to do some album release engagements and parties and appearances all over, you know, doing everything we can to support this movement and this cause. And I mean, it’s been a minute. I’m excited."

Da’Ville is set to return to the stage for the first time in a while on Saturday, August 2, at the Palm Beach Jamaica Independence Festival at John Prince Park in Lake Worth, Florida. Sharing his excitement, he said, “I can’t wait for the people dem to hear what’s coming. Big up to the team, team winning. Tours coming, stage show coming, live performances, music, and whole heap a visuals.”