AccuRadio Song Of The Day-The Skatalites

Artist:The Skatalites
Song:Guns Of Navarone
Album:Guns Of Navarone: The Best Of The Skatalites





If you're going to talk about the roots of Jamaican music, you have to talk about The Skatalites. Not only did they have their own hits like Guns Of Navarone but they backed up just about everyone in the Jamaican music industry. Many renowned musicians have gone through the group since the 50s. Trumpeter Johnnie "Dizzy" Moore, sax players Tommy McCook and Lester Sterling and trombonist Don Drummond all attended the Alpha Cottage School For Boys, known for their music program. In 1955, all four were touring the Jamaican hotel circuit. They would cross paths frequently and they decided to form a band. Other members included guitarist Jerome "Jah Jerry " Hinds, bassist Lloyd Brevett, pianist Jackie Mittoo, drummer Lloyd Knibbs and sax player Roland Alphonso. When Duke Reid and Coxsone Dodd started record labels in the late 50s, they looked for studio musicians. So the various members of The Skatalites were used as backup musicians until they recorded as The Skatalites in 1964. Of course the group lineup was changing all the time as different guys got busy with other projects. And frequently The Skatalites recordings were not issued under The Skatalites name. For example, their version of the theme from the film Guns Of Navarone was released under Roland Alphonso's name. Fortunately, all their essential recordings are on this CD. But the most important thing about The Skatalites is the creation of ska which is a potent mix of Jamaican music and other black music styles. I'm sure many fans are familiar with The Specials recording of Guns Of Navarone. Get your hands on the original. The Skatalites split into two groups in 1965 after Don Drummond was convicted of murdering his girlfriend. But they have reformed occasionally and continued to play sessions. Lester Sterling leads a version of the group today. The bottom line is The Skatalites 60s recordings still sound fresh today and are a must for any music fan. Here are The Skatalites performing Guns Of Navarone at the 2003 Glastonbury Music Festival.