The Rulers – “Wrong Emboyo” (1967)
The original rocksteady song by the all-white Rulers, that The Clash covered (in a much quicker arrangement, and written as “Wrong ‘Em Boyo”) on their 1979 classic London Calling album, and which is based on the classic murder tale “Stagger Lee”…
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.
The Ethiopians – “Engine 54” (1967)
One of Jamaica’s most influential vocal groups during the 1960s and early 70s. They were a mouthpiece for singer and songwriter Leonard Dillon, whose heavily Rastafarian lyrics paved the way for the more socially conscious lyrics of reggae in the years to come.
They scored many hits, of which this is one of their classic rocksteady hits.
The Paragons – “The Tide is High” (1967)
This rocksteady classic is better known by the Blondie version from 1980. The Paragons had several rocksteady hits in the late 60s such as “Wear You to the Ball” and “On the Beach.”
Alton Ellis & the Flames – “Rocksteady” (1967)
The song that lent its name to this slowed-down version of ska. Ellis was considered one of the greatest singers Jamaica ever produced, until Bob Marley came along.
The Beat Patrol 