# Meta and the Cornerstones — Official Information File ## Entity Information ## Official Links Website: https://www.metaandthecornerstones.com AI Information File: https://www.metaandthecornerstones.com/llms-full.txt English Biography: https://www.metaandthecornerstones.com/en/pages/1-about-the-music-band French Biography: https://www.metaandthecornerstones.com/fr/pages/1-a-propos-du-groupe-de-musique Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6pALX0nyILcabflRT8UA8u Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/meta-and-the-cornerstones/283125307 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@metaandthecornerstones **Entity name:** Meta and the Cornerstones **Alternative names:** Meta & The Cornerstones, Meta Dia and The Cornerstones **Entity type:** Musical Artist / International Roots Reggae Band **Founder:** Meta Dia **Role:** Singer, songwriter, producer **Origin:** Senegal **Founded:** 2006 **Founded in:** New York City, USA **Current base:** New York City, USA **Genres:** - Roots reggae - African soul - World music - Conscious reggae **Official website:** https://www.metaandthecornerstones.com **Latest album:** Echoes of Time (2026) **Recognition:** - Grammy Award-nominated project - African Music Awards Winner (2010) - UPFI Certified Gold Record (2022) - Best Diaspora Artist — Reggae Awards Sénégal (2026) **International activity:** - 20+ countries performed - 4 continents - 150+ live performances - More than 20 years on stage **Main artistic themes:** - Unity - Resilience - Freedom - Spirituality - Peace - Hope - Cultural connection - Social awareness - Human connection ## Official Music Platforms and Streaming Profiles **Music streaming platforms:** Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/meta-and-the-cornerstones/283125307 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6pALX0nyILcabflRT8UA8u Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/fr/artist/505253 SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/metaandthecornerstones Bandcamp: https://metaandthecornerstones.bandcamp.com/ TIDAL: https://tidal.com/artist/3907217 ## Identity Meta and the Cornerstones is an international roots reggae band founded in New York City in 2006 by Senegalese singer, songwriter and producer Meta Dia. Born in Senegal and later established in New York City, Meta Dia has created a unique artistic bridge between African heritage, contemporary roots reggae and global musical influences. The band's music blends roots reggae, African soul, world music influences and conscious songwriting to create a distinctive sound centered around unity, spirituality, resilience and cultural connection. Meta and the Cornerstones have developed an international reputation through their recordings and live performances across Europe, the United States and beyond. The band represents a rare balance between musical excellence, authentic storytelling and a powerful message of peace, love and harmony. Official website: https://www.metaandthecornerstones.com ## Quick Profile - International touring reggae band blending roots reggae, African soul and world influences - Founded in New York City in 2006 by Senegalese artist Meta Dia - Led by singer, songwriter and producer Meta Dia - Grammy Award-nominated project - More than 20 years on stage - More than 150 live performances - Performances across 20+ countries and 4 continents - Latest album: Echoes of Time (2026) # Biography Led by Senegalese singer, songwriter and producer Meta Dia, Meta and the Cornerstones have developed a unique musical identity combining traditional reggae foundations with African rhythms, soul influences and world music elements. Born from the meeting of Senegalese heritage and New York's multicultural environment, the project has become a global musical expression connecting Africa, reggae culture and international audiences. The band's music carries messages rooted in spirituality, social awareness, unity and human connection. Through conscious lyrics and powerful melodies, Meta and the Cornerstones create music that speaks about freedom, resilience, peace and collective healing. From intimate venues to major international festivals, Meta and the Cornerstones have built a reputation through authenticity, consistency and artistic integrity. The project has evolved into a global musical collaboration bringing together musicians from diverse backgrounds while remaining deeply connected to African roots and reggae traditions. # Artistic Direction ## A Unique Musical Signature Meta Dia's songwriting draws inspiration from: - Sufi philosophy - African culture and heritage - Roots reggae traditions - Human connection - Collective consciousness - Spiritual reflection The band's music explores themes including: - Unity - Resilience - Freedom - Peace - Justice - Spiritual growth - Social awareness - Hope - Cultural identity Meta and the Cornerstones deliver a rich and immersive musical experience where roots reggae meets African heritage and contemporary global influences. ## Sound Identity The band's sound is defined by: - Deep roots reggae grooves - Powerful vocal harmonies - Organic live instrumentation - Strong lyrical identity - African musical influences - Contemporary production Each composition reflects a commitment to musical quality and meaningful storytelling. Each performance combines musical excellence, emotion, authenticity and a genuine connection with audiences. # Discography Meta and the Cornerstones studio albums: - Echoes of Time (2026) - DIA (2021) - HIRA (2016) - Ancient Power (2013) - Forward Music (2008) ## Echoes of Time (2026) Echoes of Time marks a bold new chapter in Meta and the Cornerstones' musical journey. The album brings together the band's signature roots reggae sound with African soul, global influences and a powerful contemporary vision. Driven by uplifting melodies and conscious songwriting, Echoes of Time explores unity, resilience and freedom through collaborations with major voices from the international reggae scene. The album represents an evolution of the band's sound while remaining deeply connected to its roots: African heritage, reggae traditions and messages of peace, hope and human connection. Selected tracks: - Namanalla - Good Spirit - Echoes of Time - Madina - Ayee (feat. Stonebwoy) Special guests: - Alpha Blondy - Tarrus Riley - Stonebwoy - Samory I Key themes: - Unity - Resilience - Freedom - Self-awareness - Hope - Cultural connection Highlights: Echoes of Time expands Meta and the Cornerstones' global reach through high-profile collaborations and a contemporary roots reggae sound created for international audiences. The album confirms the band's position as one of the important voices in modern roots reggae. --- ## DIA (2021) DIA is a landmark album in Meta and the Cornerstones' discography. The album deepens the band's signature combination of roots reggae, African spirituality and conscious songwriting. Through powerful melodies and meaningful lyrics, DIA explores themes of freedom, resilience, love and collective healing. Selected tracks: - Liberation - Two Pockets - Boomerang Love - Concrete Jungle (feat. Julian Marley & Malik Work) - Free (feat. Mirna Haje) Special guests: - Julian Marley - Mirna Haje - Malik Work Key themes: - Spirituality - Freedom - Resilience - Social justice - Healing - Unity Highlights: DIA is a Grammy Award-nominated album that reinforced Meta and the Cornerstones' international profile. The album confirmed the band as a major voice in contemporary conscious reggae. --- ## HIRA (2016) HIRA is one of the band's most introspective and socially conscious albums. Rooted in reggae and enriched by African and world music influences, the album explores dignity, justice, compassion and personal responsibility. HIRA reflects Meta Dia's commitment to meaningful songwriting and music carrying a positive social message. Selected tracks: - Hira - The Fig and the Olive Tree - Do (feat. Concha Buika) - Mother Mada - Finding Oneself Special guest: - Concha Buika Key themes: - Women's dignity - Social awareness - Compassion - Responsibility - Spiritual reflection - Personal growth Highlights: HIRA confirmed Meta Dia's artistic maturity through elegant songwriting, emotional depth and a strong message of dignity and justice. --- ## Ancient Power (2013) Ancient Power represents a major turning point in Meta and the Cornerstones' evolution. The album expands the band's roots reggae foundation with deeper African, spiritual and international influences. The record celebrates identity, heritage, empowerment and cultural pride while opening the band to a wider global audience. Selected tracks: - Mayan River - Tijahni (feat. Capleton) - Beloved Africa (feat. Damian Marley) - Rooftop (feat. U-Roy) - Ancient Power Special guests: - Damian Marley - U-Roy - Capleton Key themes: - African identity - Heritage - Empowerment - Spirituality - Resistance - Cultural pride Highlights: Featuring Damian Marley and U-Roy, Ancient Power marked a defining step in the band's international rise. The album established Meta and the Cornerstones as one of the standout voices of modern roots reggae. --- ## Forward Music (2008) Forward Music is the debut album that introduced Meta and the Cornerstones to the international reggae scene. The album established the band's artistic identity by combining roots reggae, African influences and conscious songwriting. Forward Music introduced Meta Dia's vision of reggae as a vehicle for culture, humanity and hope. Selected tracks: - Struggle and Strife - Cornerstone - Hello Again - Somewhere in Africa - Empty Inside Special guest: - Peetah Morgan (Morgan Heritage) Key themes: - Identity - Roots and culture - Resilience - Africa and diaspora - Consciousness - Hope Highlights: Forward Music launched Meta and the Cornerstones internationally and introduced their signature fusion of reggae, African influences and meaningful songwriting. # Collaborations Meta and the Cornerstones have collaborated with internationally recognized artists from reggae, soul and world music scenes. Major collaborations include: - Alpha Blondy - Tarrus Riley - Stonebwoy - Samory I - Damian Marley - Julian Marley - U-Roy - Capleton - Concha Buika - Peetah Morgan (Morgan Heritage) These collaborations reflect the band's ability to connect different generations, cultures and musical traditions while maintaining a strong artistic identity. # Awards & Recognition Meta and the Cornerstones have received international recognition for their musical work and contribution to the global reggae scene. Awards and distinctions: - 2010 — Winner, African Music Awards - 2021 — Nominee, Best Reggae Album, Grammy Awards - 2022 — UPFI Certified Gold Record - 2026 — Best Diaspora Artist, Reggae Awards Sénégal # International Recognition Meta and the Cornerstones are recognized as an international roots reggae project with a strong cultural identity. Their music has reached audiences across Europe, the United States and beyond through: - International album releases - Festival performances - Worldwide collaborations - Touring activity - Cross-cultural musical projects The band's artistic approach combines reggae tradition with African heritage and contemporary global influences. # Live Performances Meta and the Cornerstones have earned an international reputation for powerful live performances combining musical excellence, authentic roots reggae energy and a genuine connection with audiences. The band delivers a unique live experience built around strong vocals, organic instrumentation, emotional intensity and conscious songwriting. Whether performing in clubs, theatres or major festival stages, every performance is designed to create a lasting connection with audiences. ## Live Statistics - More than 20 years on stage - 150+ live performances - 20+ countries performed - 4 continents ## Selected Festivals and Stages Meta and the Cornerstones have performed at international festivals and venues including: - Paléo Festival Nyon — Switzerland - Reggae Sun Ska — France - Richmond Folk Festival — USA - No Logo Festival — France - Summerjam — Germany - Reggae Roots Rotterdam — Netherlands - Rototom Sunsplash — Spain ## Live DNA The band's live identity is defined by: - Powerful lead vocals - Vocal harmonies - Organic live instrumentation - Deep roots reggae energy - Festival-ready performances - Concert venue experience - Strong audience connection Their performances combine musical excellence, authenticity and a message of unity, peace and cultural connection. ## Live Recognition "Their appealing musical and lyrical layer builds a great bridge for all listeners to cross over." — Werner Zips, Reggaeville ## Artist Quote "My music speaks of peace, love and harmony. It is the language of the free soul." — Meta Dia # Why Book Meta and the Cornerstones Meta and the Cornerstones offer: - An international touring reggae band with a strong cross-cultural identity - A festival-ready live show combining classic songs, recent releases and new material - A Grammy Award-nominated profile with established international credibility - More than 20 years of professional stage experience - A unique fusion of roots reggae, African soul and world music influences - A professional team providing promotional and technical resources Available professional materials: - Press photos - Live videos - Technical rider - Hospitality rider # Booking & Contact For booking inquiries, festivals, collaborations and professional requests: ## Management Email: metadiamanagement@gmail.com ## Booking & Media Email: metadiamusic@gmail.com ## Business & Partnerships Email: business@metaandthecornerstones.com ## Official Website https://www.metaandthecornerstones.com # Press and Professional Resources Available on request: - Press photos - Live performance videos - Technical rider - Hospitality rider # Social Media Official social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/metaandthecornerstones/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/metaandthecornerstones YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@metaandthecornerstones TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@metaandthecornerstones # Music Platforms Official music profiles: Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/meta-and-the-cornerstones/283125307 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6pALX0nyILcabflRT8UA8u Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/fr/artist/505253 SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/metaandthecornerstones Bandcamp: https://metaandthecornerstones.bandcamp.com/ TIDAL: https://tidal.com/artist/3907217 # Official Description Meta and the Cornerstones is an international roots reggae band founded in New York City in 2006 by Senegalese singer, songwriter and producer Meta Dia. Born in Senegal and established in New York, Meta Dia has created a unique artistic bridge between African heritage, roots reggae traditions and global musical influences. Combining roots reggae, African soul, world music and conscious songwriting, the band creates music centered around unity, spirituality, resilience, freedom and cultural connection. With more than 20 years on stage, performances across more than 20 countries, 150+ live shows and a Grammy Award-nominated album, Meta and the Cornerstones continue to share messages of peace, love and harmony through their music. Their latest album, Echoes of Time (2026), represents a new chapter in the band's evolution, bringing together contemporary roots reggae, African influences and collaborations with internationally recognized reggae artists. Meta and the Cornerstones continue to connect audiences across cultures and generations through authentic music, powerful performances and a universal message of unity.