Iba was born Charles "Chucky" Encarnacion on the island of St. Croix in the Virgin Islands. As the son of a musician, Iba was indoctrinated into music at a very young age, heavily involved in such dynamic art forms as wash-pan bands, school bands, rapping, break dancing, DJ chanting, and roots reggae singing. Inspired by such legends as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Steel Pulse and other purveyors of consciousness, Iba's passion for knowledge led him to embrace the teachings of Rastafarianism.
As a young Rastafarian, Iba eagerly sang and chanted at family parties, nightclubs and any event where he could hold the mic. He studied with some of St. Croix's best singers and is applauded for his developed and original vocal style. Over time, Iba became lead singer of the Front Line Reggae Band, quickly spearheading their reputation as one of St.Croixs great reggae collaborations! The performances were always well attended and much attention was bestowed upon their powerful lead vocalist who became one of St. Croix's celebrated singers.
In 1995 - as only Jah could do - Hurricane Marilyn devastated the Virgin Islands and the efforts of the Front Line Band. The impact created great financial difficulty for everyone and music took second place to life. It was at this point in his career that Iba decided to relocate to Connecticut. After settling and adapting to the rigors and lifestyle of urban living, Iba joined the Survivors Band in Connecticut and sang feverishly for the next three years. A year later he met with fellow Virgin Islanders, the Bambú Station Reggae Band.
In 2001, Iba recorded several songs with Bambú Station that were selected for their award-winning compilation "Talkin' Roots - Volume I". Iba's song "Chant" was the lead track and helped usher in a globally recognized talent pool of artists from the Virgin Islands. Iba's song was heavily rotated throughout the United States and Caribbean, helping to solidify "Talkin' Roots I" as a modern classic.
Soon after, Iba officially signed with Mt. Nebo Records and launched his debut album on July 1, 2003: Jah Lion (Children of the Nile) . To date, the album has generated outstanding reviews and critical acclaim from industry experts, radio personalities and reggae fans alike. Creation Steppin' Radio ranked Iba's debut as the 12th Best album of 2003 and it continues drawing heavy rotation throughout many reggae markets across the world. Iba is currently on tour with label-mate Bambú Station.
