Noel Ellis – “Memories” (1983)
Great dub-inflected track from the little-known and unjustly ignored self-titled album by Noel Ellis from 1983.
Alton Ellis – “Joy in the Morning” (1970)
“The Godfather of Rocksteady” – another great rocksteady hit from Alton Ellis.
This song is dedicated to his memory. He recently passed away on Oct. 10th. May he rest in peace…
Toots & the Maytals – “54-46 That’s My Number” (1968)
One of Toots Hibbert’s early great singles. This was during the time when rocksteady was mutating over into the new style called reggae. The lyrics describe Toots’ time in prison for an arrest for possession of ganja. 54-46 was Toots’ prisoner ID number during his servitude, and the original recording was made shortly after his release.
Toots, who had a great bluesy voice, would go on to have many classics in he years to come.
Creation Rebel – “Rising Star” (1978)
The experimental dub album Dub from Creation, the debut release from Creation Rebel, is a sonic tour de force. Dating from 1978 on the Hitrun label, it was way ahead of its time, with its weird sounds and electronic feel. Still sounds amazing when using headphones.
Co-produced by Dennis Bovell. Creation Rebel were basically “The Arabs” who backed the legendary Prince Far I.
Bob Marley & the Wailers – “Is This Love” (1978)
Taken from the 1978 album Kaya, one of Bob’s greatest creations. This is simply one of those songs you never get tired of hearing.
NOTE: If this song says it’s no longer available, just click on it twice & it should bring up another screen that will automatically play it.
The Clash w/ Mikey Dread – “Rockers Galore…UK Tour” (1980)
Jamaican producer and toaster Mikey Dread sings over the “Bankrobber” dub melody (this was the B-side) from June 1980. Very hard to find now.
Outside of Eek-A-Mouse, Dread probably had the strangest singing voice in reggae. This is in tribute to him, as he passed away not too long ago. He was a production genius and should not be forgotten.
Alton Ellis & the Flames – “Dance Crasher” (1966)
Alton Ellis was generally revered as the greatest and most soulful singer the country ever produced – until Bob Marley broke big. Ellis was one of the first singers to enter a Jamaican music business. This is one of his great ska hits from 1966. He also made many great songs during the rocksteady and reggae eras.
NOTE: Please double click on this video in order to get it to play.
Burning Spear – “Marcus Garvey” (1975)
The great Burning Spear (the group and the man) performing one of his signature songs. The man also known as Winston Rodney has been making records and touring for about 40 years now and is one of reggae’s most respected artists.
Matthew Wilder – “Don’t Break My Stride” (1983)
Another pop-reggae classic, this time by Matthew Wilder – he was basically a one hit wonder. This was a Top 5 hit in 1983. He later worked as a producer for Christina Aguilera, No Doubt and Kelly Clarkson.
Musical Youth – “Pass the Dutchie” (1982)
Everyone should know this one. A huge hit back in 1982 by this group of youngsters. This pop-reggae song was nominated for a Grammy and the band itself won the Grammy for best new artist in 1983. They disappeared soon after though.
