Johnny Clarke, born on January 12, 1955, in Whitfield Town, Kingston, Jamaica, is a seminal figure in reggae music, renowned for his soulful vocals and spiritually conscious lyrics. Emerging in the early 1970s, Clarke became a leading voice in roots reggae, significantly influencing the genre's development. Matrix Music +9 World A Reggae +9 Wikipedia +9

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Clarke's musical journey began in his youth, singing in church choirs and engaging with local sound systems like VJ the Dub Master. In 1971, he won a talent contest in Bull Bay, leading to his first recording, "God Made the Sea and the Sun," with producer Clancy Eccles. Though the single didn't achieve commercial success, it marked the start of his recording career. He gained initial recognition with hits like "Everyday Wondering" and "Julie," produced by Rupie Edwards in 1973. TABOU1 TABOU1 +8 Kings Music International +8 WOMEX +8 WOMEX +5 www.reggaeville.com +5 World A Reggae +5 Wikipedia +7 World A Reggae +7 TABOU1 +7

Rise to Prominence

Clarke's breakthrough came in 1974 with "None Shall Escape the Judgement," produced by Bunny Lee. This track became the title of his debut album and established him as a prominent reggae artist. Collaborating with Lee and the Aggrovators, Clarke produced a series of hits that blended roots and lovers rock themes. His music often reflected his Rastafarian beliefs, addressing topics like anti-violence and the legalization of marijuana. Clarke was instrumental in popularizing the "Flying Cymbals" sound, a precursor to the "Roots Rockers" style of the late 1970s. In recognition of his impact, he was named Artist of the Year in Jamaica in both 1975 and 1976. AppleMusic - Web Player +10 Sweets Lyrics +10 Matrix Music +10 TABOU1 +7 World A Reggae +7 Kings Music International +7 Sweets Lyrics +7 Vinyl Me, Please +7 www.reggaeville.com +7 TABOU1 +6 WBSS Media +6 Wikipedia +6 www.reggaeville.com +8 Kings Music International +8 Wikipedia +8

International Reach and Continued Influence

In 1976, Clarke became one of the first Jamaican artists signed to Virgin Records' Frontline subsidiary, releasing albums such as "Authorized Version" and "Rockers Time Now." Despite a decline in popularity in Jamaica during the early 1980s, he relocated to London in 1983, collaborating with producers like Mad Professor, King Tubby, Errol Thompson, and Prince Jammy. Clarke continued to release music, including albums like "Rasta Nuh Fear" (1992) and "Rock With Me" (1997), and maintained a presence on the international reggae scene through regular tours. Vinyl Me, Please +6 World A Reggae +6 WOMEX +6 Kings Music International +5 WOMEX +5 www.reggaeville.com +5 Sweets Lyrics +5 WBSS Media +5 World A Reggae +5

Legacy

Known for his distinctive knee-length dreadlocks, which he often reveals dramatically during live performances, Clarke has left an indelible mark on reggae music. His song "None Shall Escape the Judgement" remains a classic, featured on various Trojan roots compilations. In 2012, he released "Jamaica 50 Johnny Clarke Sing Then Dub Them" on his own Hit Machine label, commemorating Jamaica's 50th anniversary of independence. Clarke's enduring influence and commitment to his roots continue to inspire new generations of reggae artists and fans worldwide