· By Mattias Forsgren

PAPA Sound launch collaborative EP with uplifting new single Higher Power. The Swedish duo join forces with Jamaican artist Kim Wierdo and Chilean reggae veteran Balaguero on the first taste of an upcoming Urbano Latino and dancehall-inspired EP.

Following a string of international collaborations, Swedish production duo PAPA Sound unveil Higher Power, the first single from their upcoming collaborative EP with Jamaican vocalist Kim Wierdo. Joined by Chilean reggae artist Balaguero, the track explores the meeting point between modern dancehall and the vibrant world of Urbano Latino, blending infectious rhythms with a message of faith, resilience and positive energy.

Built around deep basslines, warm percussion and an irresistible chorus, Higher Power draws inspiration from the global evolution of Latin urban music while remaining firmly rooted in Jamaican dancehall. Sung in English, Jamaican patois and Spanish, the song reflects the international backgrounds of its creators and celebrates music's ability to connect cultures across borders.

Kim Wierdo opens the track with verses about inner strength, meditation and overcoming negativity, while Balaguero contributes a heartfelt Spanish verse expressing trust, gratitude and love. Together they create a conversation that reaches beyond language, encouraging listeners to find strength both within themselves and in the people around them.

Formed in 2020 by Paolo Albo and Patrik Arve, PAPA Sound have built a reputation for bass-driven productions that freely blend dancehall, afrobeat and reggae. Their upcoming EP expands that musical palette even further by embracing the contemporary sounds of Urbano Latino—the global movement that has grown from the fusion of reggae, dancehall, hip hop and Latin rhythms into one of today's most influential genres. Rather than copying trends, PAPA Sound approach the style through genuine collaboration with artists deeply connected to its cultural roots.

Patrik Arve is also known as a founding member of Swedish group Teddybears, whose international breakthrough included the classic Cobrastyle featuring Mad Cobra. Throughout his career he has collaborated with artists including Beenie Man, Ninjaman, Elephant Man, Busy Signal, Wiley, Kano and Iggy Pop.

For PAPA Sound, the partnership with Kim Wierdo has developed over several years, making the upcoming EP a natural next step. Together, they explore the space where Jamaican dancehall meets the rhythmic pulse of today's Latin urban movement.

Adding another international dimension is Balaguero, one of Chile's most respected reggae voices. Having spent years bridging reggae, dancehall and Latin influences, his contribution brings an authentic South American perspective that naturally complements the project's cross-cultural identity.

While each artist brings their own distinct voice, Higher Power feels remarkably cohesive. The production leaves room for every performance while maintaining the heavy low-end groove that has become PAPA Sound's signature. The result is an uplifting soundtrack equally at home on reggae soundsystems, Latin club playlists and summer festival stages.