Gentleman

Gentleman (born Tilmann Otto, 19 April 1975) is a German reggae artist known for blending classic reggae styles with conscious and spiritual themes. He lives in the Neubrück area of Cologne and is the son of a Lutheran pastor. Gentleman is married to Tamika, a backing singer of the Far East Band, and they have two children, Samuel and Tamica. Despite his busy touring and recording schedule, he prioritizes family, a theme reflected in his music projects such as Journey to Jah, inspired by the birth of his son Samuel, and the song “Mama” from the collaborative album Conversations with Ky-Mani Marley, which reflects his spiritual connection to his mother. Gentleman’s musical journey began in his late teens with frequent trips to Jamaica, and an early collaboration with the band Freundeskreis on the track “Tabula Rasa.” Initially starting as a deejay, he developed a style rooted in classic reggae, inspired by artists like Bob Marley, performing mainly in English or Jamaican Patois. Songs like “Send a Prayer” demonstrate his faith and spiritual focus. His 2004 album Confidence reached number 1 on the German album charts, cementing his success in Europe. Gentleman has collaborated with numerous reggae legends, including appearing on True Love by Toots and the Maytals, which won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 2004. In 2005, he performed “Lass los” with Mamadee at the Bundesvision Song Contest, representing North Rhine-Westphalia and placing 15th. After a decade releasing music under the Four Music label, he transitioned to Universal Music in 2010, continuing his international reggae career.