One of the most unique, and neglected, of Jamaica’s vocal groups, the Tennors unleashed a stream of excellent singles across the rocksteady era, with their popularity continuing well into the reggae age. The group’s leading …

The Techniques were a rocksteady vocal harmony group that formed in Jamaica in 1964. The group included singer Junior Menz (previously of the Paragons) and had hit songs, such as “Little Did You Know,” by …

One of Jamaica’s most talented artists, Tapper Zukie has had an equal impact on both sides of the recording deck, as both a hitmaking toaster and as a producer who has worked with the cream …

Producer Lee “Scratch” Perry’s longtime house band, the Upsetters appeared on some of the most legendary records in reggae history, including the early hits of the Wailers. The group was named after Perry’s 1968 smash …

The consummate roots band, the Wailing Souls may never have gained the international reputation of their compatriots, at least not at the height of the genre’s popularity, but they did outlive most of them. Their …

The Maytones were actually the duo of lead singer Vern Buckley and backing vocalist Gladstone “Son” Grant. The pair were neighbors in May Pen, a rural market town, a background that deeply influenced their vocal …

Vocal trio the Melodians were one of Jamaica’s greatest rocksteady groups, cutting a series of classic singles during the late ’60s and early ’70s that included the internationally famed “Rivers of Babylon” and “Sweet Sensation.” …

Even by Jamaican standards, the Meditations’ early career is convoluted, and both Ansel Cridland and Danny Clarke’s careers were already well underway before the pair linked up. Cridland, born in 1951, moved to Kingston as …

Vocal trio the Mighty Diamonds were one of the most internationally popular reggae groups to emerge from the ’70s roots era. More accessible than many other roots outfits, the Diamonds boasted soulful, gorgeously pure harmonies …

Founded in Brooklyn, NY, the Paragons were a black vocal harmony quintet signed to the New York-based Winley label, which was also home to the Jesters (“The Wind”). Julius McMichael (lead), Ben Frazier (first tenor), …