musicology #431

butterfly mind #1

(Delroy Wilson – Keep On Trying)

Over the last few days/weeks/months..maybe even years !! I have been doing a LOT of, (maybe too much?), thinking and subsequently find myself a bit lost as I wander through a maze of internal dialogue that seems to do nothing but ask questions.

The butterfly mind has that capacity, mesmerising to observe as it flutters from one place to another but a hard road to travel and extremely distracting. I don’t know whether ‘the road’ leads anywhere particular as, for me, it tends to be the journey more than the destination but responsibility both for self and others, (children), is a great leveller and something I take VERY seriously so it feels like I’ll have to turn my gaze from the butterfly and focus instead on building “a heaven on the earth”

as for themusicologist, I have spent too much energy searching for cuts that expressed my deepest feelings which has bottlenecked the flow of music. so from now my intention is to set the music free from the bondage of too much meaning and just try to lay down one slice a day that I feel like sharing. It will continue to be the soundtrack to my life but with a little more freedom.

first up…one from Delro’ (Wilson), Jamaican musicologist and sweet soul singer whose career stretches way back to the early sixties when he cut his recording teeth in 1963 at the tender age of 15, hooking up to Sir Coxsone, Downbeat the Ruler Dodd’s Studio 1. big 10 inch from the 1970’s on one of Coxsone’s many labels, (music lab).

musicology #428

noExcuses #5

(Live Good – Burning Spear)

oi..3 days running !!
are the storm clouds lifting and is that the sun I can see trying to break through?
dont know for sure but what I am learning along the way is how authenticity can and does challenge existence. when someone wants to hurt and blame you for the muck in their life there’s a choice for you to make.
do you look to excuse, (blame), yesterdays behaviour and argue or do you genuinely take full responsibility for your actions, recognise your weakness and resolve to not make the same mistakes again? as the title of this theme suggests for themusicologist the choice I choose to make is, noExcuses.

Today’s cut is courtesy of the genius that is Winston Rodney a.k.a Burning Spear with a top ranking slice of the Studio 1 musicological ‘pie’…

LISTEN TUNE..

musicology #417

AfterTheStorm #2

(Skatalites – The Reburial)

Stepping up the pace with this majestic piece of Jamaican musicology, (a tribute to Marcus Garvey), from the vaults. Recorded at Coxsone’s Brentford Road powerhouse, Studio 1 for Justin Yap and released on his top ranking Top Deck label.

musicology #360

Ideology&Philosophy #1

(The Silvertones – Smile)

So as one theme ends another begins…Didn’t have a clue what it might involve until last night when it came to me while soaking in some ’spoken word’, (a daily occurence in the home of themusicologist). So to keep it fresh in my heart and mind I would like to share and combine two of my passsions with the crew, music…and the ‘love of wisdom’ or what’s better known as Philosophy.

My intention is to keep the dialogue going and start each slice of musicology with a bit of spoken word followed by what I believe is a piece of musical wisdom. Not sure how it will unfold but as with all the themes on themusicologist I feel compelled by something other than logic or reason so I’ll continue to let intuition be the guide.

Day one features an introduction to the Western Worlds first and still prevalent Ideology, Greek Philosophy. Borrowed from a ‘top ranking’ lecture on the subject by a lecturer called David Roochnik who, for me does a perfect job in explaining the meaning of ‘Dialectic’. A word that I have heard and read many times but until this Cat laid out this definition was never satisfied with my understanding of it. A very important concept that continues to have a major impact on all our lives

The musicology is a fine piece of wisdom from Jamaican vocal group, the Silvertones featuring the talents of Gilmore Grant, Keith Coley and Delroy Denton. Yet another piece of ‘Coxsone’ magic, (first press 45), from the back end of the sixties…

musicology #333

DownbeatTheRuler #13

(The Wailers – Do It Right)

Final cut of the Coxsone Tribute. Have to finish up with this 1965 piece of rip roaring Ska sung by the Wailers. Featuring not only Jamaica’s premier band the Skatalites but also no less than Sir Coxsone Dodd himself on ‘Beer Bottle Percussion’ Duties !! Just like to add that many a deserved artist didn’t get a spot on the Downbeat Tribute most notably The Heptones, Jackie Mittoo, Dennis Brown, Sugar Minott, Ken Parker, Cornell Campbell, The Clarendonians..(too long a list to name them all). Some of them have already featured on themusicologist and I imagine that all will eventually..

In addition, the Second in the Tribute Tee series is to communicate my appreciation, (in more ways than one), for the man who made it all possible. Clement Seymour ‘Sir Coxsone/Downbeat The Ruler’ Dodd whose musical legacy is, for themusicologist, second to none. For more information click on the images below

Gold & Black Sweatshirt

Gold & Black ‘45′ Tee

Gold & Blue ‘45′ Tee

Downbeat The Ruler

Red & White ‘33′ Tee

Red & White ‘45′ Tee

musicology #332

DownbeatTheRuler #12

(Delroy Wilson – I Want Justice)

Penultimate cut of the Downbeat Tribute selection. Just like to make clear that for themusicologist Sir Coxsone’s Studio 1 is the Number 1 sound which is obviously a reason for paying a two week tribute to the musical legacy he laid down. Of course without the musicians, singers, producers and engineers who contributed it wouldn’t be. So even though this is a tribute to Downbeat it’s just as much a tribute to all who participated in delivering some of greatest music ever made and I hope the last two weeks have been as enjoyable for you as it has been for me.

Tomorrow I will be releasing part two of ‘The Project’ that has occupied an ever growing part of my heart and mind for more than 20 years and as always would appreciate your feedback/critique/opinions on it.

Today though it’s time for a slice from Mr Delroy Wilson who begun his career with Coxsone at the tender age of 13. Born in 1948 Delroy first enjoyed ’success’ with his musical attacks on Dodd’s one time employee Prince Buster, ( ‘Joe Liges’), which I was going to lay down, but it was during the Rocksteady period, (and after), that his star truly shone with cuts like I’m Not A King, Dancing Mood, Riding For A Fall,  Keep On Trying etc, (all of which almost made it onto the tribute), At the tail end of the Sixties Delroy and Sir Coxsone parted ways and he drifted between various producers such as Bunny Lee, Gussie Clarke, Niney The Observer and the Hookim Brothers Channel 1 but as with many of Jamaica’s foundation artists the 80’s weren’t kind to him and his star begun it’s descent into almost obscurity by his untimely death in 1995.

So if you’re listening Delroy…this one’s for you….a top ranking slice of the Ska pie from 1965 originally released as a 45 on the Studio 1 label featuring, (unless my ears are deceiving me), what sounds like The Wailers on backup.

musicology #0331

DownbeatTheRuler #11

(Lone Ranger – Dance ‘A Fi Cork)

A rare treat for all ‘Downbeat’ Lovers…Lone Ranger in the dance waxing lyrical on the Larry Marshall Killer ‘Throw Me Corn’.

‘Late Night Blues’ connoisseurs selection  recorded live in the dance sometime in 1983?

Taken from the Studio 1 LP ‘Battle Of The DJ’s’

musicology #330

DownbeatTheRuler #10

(Wailing Souls – Don’t Fight)

Today’s cut, for me, epitomises the Studio 1 sound apoun which much of Reggae was built. Drum, Bass and Harmony..the trinity and who better to provide an example on the Downbeat tribute than the mighty ‘Wailing Souls’

Their story begins with Winston “Pipe” Matthews who as a youth living in Kingston in the early ’60s, learned to sing at the feet of singer supreme Joe Higgs, (already a veteran vocalist with a string of hits to his name, coaching up and coming talent in his tenement yard, his most famous protégés being the Wailers). Higgs’ training stood Matthews in equally good stead and by 1963, the aspiring singer and his vocal group the Schoolboys had come to the attention of Prince Buster. In 1965, the Schoolboys folded, but Matthews was soon back with a new group, the Renegades. This vocal trio comprised Matthews, Lloyd “Bread” McDonald, and George “Buddy” Haye, both of whom were also alumni of Higgs’ vocal classes. It was at this point that the trio came to the attention of Coxsonne Dodd and the Renegades embarked on a fruitful career at Studio One.

In 1968, Haye departed, in his place came two new singers, Oswald Downer and Norman Davis. Such a shift of lineup prompted the group to totally cut ties with the past, and they changed their moniker to the Wailing Souls. Studio One eventually released two seminal compilations of recordings from this period, The Wailing Souls and the LP from which today’s piece is taken Soul and Power.

Still going strong after more than 40 years the Wailing Souls continue to deliver soul stirring musicology that stands as a testament to both their quality and longevity. For more ‘Souls’ Knowledge visit their site from where the above information was unashamedly gleaned.

An early 70’s cut, with the bassline echoing the Larry Marshall classic ‘Throw Me Corn’.

musicology #329

DownbeatTheRuler #9

(Ken Boothe – Just A Little Bit Of You)

Short but sweet today as I’m out early morning back late afternoon and then out playing football in the evening. Today’s slice of the Downbeat pie is one of my absolute favourites from what, for themusicologist is Studio 1’s Golden age. Delivered by a Cat who has already featured on this theme but, in true musicology style, the axiom “as in music so in life” comes through loud and clear on this one…so this one it had to be.

I’m gambling that it’s Leroy Sibbles on Bass? with full Sound Dimension crew locked tightly in the groove….

Listen Tune..

musicology #328

DownbeatTheRuler #8

(Horace Andy – Found Somebody Of My Own)

Today on the Downbeat Tribute it’s the turn of Horace Hinds, (cousin of Justin) A.K.A Horace Andy renamed by Sir Coxsone in time for his seminal 1970 set ‘Skylarking’, (one of the first Studio 1 LP’s that themusicologist had the pleasure of owning). Introduced by the inimitable ‘Dread At The Controls’…Mikey Dread from a radio program showcasing Studio 1. Could have been one from any number of Horace’s recordings but didn’t want to pass up an opportunity to pay a second tribute on themusicologist to Mikey Dread who is no longer with us. Not only that but it’s one that is lesser known although, for me, just as good as many of his classics. Taken from one of the mighty Dread’s Rockers In The Morning sets.

Mikey and Horace…come in and let the people know what you’re talking about.

musicology #326

DownbeatTheRuler #6

(Dave Barker – Johnny Dollar)

Today’s page of the Downbeat story is a 45 from an artist known by the name of Dave Barker, (a nom de plume courtesy of Lee Perry), who is probably best known for his part on the well known single ‘Double Barrel’. A singer and ‘DJ’ who was among the earliest proponents of the ‘chatting’ style made popular by such luminaries as U-Roy, Dennis Alcapone, I-Roy and Dillinger. There were earlier Cats who dropped ‘chat pon the mic’ but it wasn’t until Hugh Roy stepped up that the genre came of age and flew out of the dance and into the recording studio in 1970 on Arthur ‘Duke ‘ Reid’s definining rocksteady rhythms.

This one, a 1970 cut on the English Studio 1 subsidary label Ackee, is a cover of Garnett Mimm’s earlier majestic 1964 Soul recording ‘A Quiet Place’ and finds Mr Barker, who in my opinion was a much better singer than ‘DJ’, in fine voice expressing concerns about people intruding on his quiet time.

musicology #325

DownbeatTheRuler #5

(Burning Spear – Creation Rebel)

Today’s cut is from one of music’s greatest ambassadors; Winston Rodney better known as Burning Spear whose message of defiance and determination has always been as clear as crystal.

The Spear was born in March 1948 and raised in St Ann’s Bay Jamaica along with Bob Marley, (and before them Marcus Garvey), who introduced him to Coxsone in 1969. Over the next few years he recorded without much success or financial reward until hooking up with Jack Ruby who produced his seminal works Marcus Garvey and Man In The Hills. The rest as they say is History.

This one, recorded sometime in the early 70’s and backed by the ‘New Establishment’ (including the ‘dub’), holds a special place in themusicologist’s heart as it was one of the pieces that helped me through my darkest hours a few years back and as a result will always hold deep meaning.

For more information on the man and his music check his personal site..and take a listen to his personal message.

musicology #324

DownbeatTheRuler #4

(Ken Boothe – You’re No Good)

Today’s cut is from one of THE greatest Jamaican vocalists never known, (outside of the Reggae community)..one of music’s many mysteries to me is how Ken Boothe has never had the global recognition that his talent deserves. Time after time, year after year from the earliest days right up until the present this Cat has delivered. In truth his Studio 1 output alone could have easily filled this theme to overflowing. His ‘cup certainly runneth over’ as they say and todays slice should illustrate why.

I love Alton Ellis as well you know but I would have to say that in my humble opinion Ken Boothe is ‘Mr Soul Of Jamaica’.

Born and raised in Kingston Mr Boothe was a foundation stone in the Coxsone empire as important to the Label’s success as the Miracles were to Tamla Motown who stuck by Downbeat until parting company in the early Seventies. Without further delay hold this, The original Ska version of his later ‘hit’. Look out for A Ken Boothe special on themusicologist sometime in the future.

musicology #323

DownbeatTheRuler #3

(Alton & Hortense Ellis – Easy Squeeze)

Out all day yesterday working the tees so apologies for not dropping a next ‘Downbeat bomb’ through your speakers. Hopefully today’s slice of the Coxsone pie will make up for it.

A classic piece of Brentford Road Rock Steady that has trembled my marrow for many years. Could have thrown it down a few times on previous themes but for reason unbeknown to ‘mesang’ didn’t until today.

One of the most emotive, hard hitting, Rough & Tough cuts of the Rock Steady period in my humble opinion…lyrics, vocals, music all combining in soul searching harmony to communicate a message concerning  the quest for that most elusive of feelings, True Love.

Recorded and first released in 1966? for Dodd by the Godfather Of Rocksteady Alton Ellis alongside his younger Sister Hortense, both of whom are sadly no longer with us. What is however (and will be for as long as music like this is being loved and played), are their ‘works’ many of which sit comfortably at the very top of the musicology tree.

Hortense was Jamaica’s ‘first female vocalist’ cutting her teeth as early as 1959 on such legendary talent shows as Vere John’s Opportunity hour, (where many a ‘Jam Down’ legend begun their careers), but it wasn’t until a few years later in 1961 under the tutelage of Downbeat that she begun a recording career. For sure having Alton as a brother helped but anyone who has heard her sing would agree that merit was the foundation stone apoun which she built a career that stretched right up to her untimely death in 2000 AD. Recording for many of the greatest Jamaican producers such as Duke Reid, Bunny Lee, Harry Mudie and Gussie Clarke, (to name a few)

As regulars may be aware Alton has featured more than any other Jamaican artist on themusicologist over the preceeding two years so I won’t wax lyrical on the man and his music today other than to reiterate that it was he and the previous Artist, (Bob Andy), who first opened my ears and heart to Downbeat The Ruler’s output and for that I am eternally grateful..

So in Tribute to the memories of Alton, Hortense and Clement Seymour ‘Sir Coxsone / Downbeat The Ruler’ Dodd hold this…..

musicology #322

DownbeatTheRuler #2

(Bob Andy – I’m Going Home)

Sir Coxson was a music lover and man on the street but also a businessman and a successful one at that which, in my experience is often not appreciated by those who have been left behind to hustle and scratch for survival on the tough streets of places like Kingston, London, New York etc. The truth is that many would rather see you stumble and fall than lift yourself out of the mean streets especially when, as far as they are concerned, (and maybe rightly so), you have made it off the sweat of their brow. This seems to have been the case with Coxsone as the years rolled on but it’s not easy to keep such an enterprise going, (as many record label owners would attest to), when everyone wants a slice of the pie. Coxsone not only put Studio 1 together but also kept it going right up until his death.

Possibly inspired by Cats like Sam Cooke whose SAR label was, (along with Berry Gordy’s Tamla Motown), a pioneer in the record business, Dodd couldn’t afford to ‘take any prisoners’ so paid the Artist, Arranger, Producer and Musician per side, (or as employee), rather than cut them in on the Action. After all it was he who was taking all the risk so why share the rewards? Any business person would agree with his appraisal of the situation but the Artist wouldn’t. To further highlight the point the singer of today’s cut is quoted to say;

“Clement Dodd is a good mentor and he really provided the facilities for a group of youngsters who would never have had anywhere to go in those days, but he could have done more for them. I would say Jamaican music suffers from a Coxsone syndrome.”

I can see why. It was they who created the ‘product’ for Dodd to capitalise on so why should they not be ‘cut in’? Dodd may say that “if you want a piece of the pie you also have to take some of the risk” which hardly any of the Artists were in a position to do. Cats like Prince Buster, (a businessman and Artist), saw the light and parted company with Dodd as soon as possible to make a name, (and hopefully some ‘corn’), for himself but of the many hundreds in Jamaican music history VERY few have much to show, financially, for their achievements.

What they do have though is a place in musical history that will last long after they have been laid to rest and an army of fans that continue to spread their name. Personally I would rather be the Artist than the businessman.

Anyway enough chat and on with the Downbeat show….

This 1966 !! cut, (his first solo piece), is courtesy of former Paragons founding member and songwriter supreme Keith Anderson, (Bob Andy), apparently backed up by The Wailers but to my ears it sounds more like The Heptones? anyway whoever is harmonising it’s Bob Andy’s wailing lead that cuts through and is one of my personal favourites…featured on one of the greatest Studio 1 LP’s Bob Andy’s Songbook.

Bob Andy….Live on…

musicology #321

DownbeatTheRuler #1

(Jackie Opel – Eternal Love)

This week’s theme is a tribute to Sir Coxsone Dodd’s Jamaican musical powerhouse..Studio 1. Clement Seymour Dodd was a genuine music lover who set up his sound system ‘Downbeat The Ruler to play Rhythm & Blues after returning from a trip to America in 1954. It wasn’t until 1963 however that he setup the first Recording studio to be owned by a ‘Man on the street’ the legendary Studio 1.

Almost every Jamaican singer or musician of note has at one time passed through the Brentford Road studio and although many were unhappy with the financial arrangements I hope that none would argue that the man was a Giant in the progress of Jamaican musicology.

So without further delay hold this 1963 cut from the majestic and already featured on themusicologist, Jackie Opel with a piece from the earliest days of Studio 1 featuring The cream of Jamaica’s musicians The Skatalites.

musicology #302

JamaicanVocalGroupAction #13

(The Voiceroys – Love & Unity)

Today’s slice of the J.A vocal group pie is yet another from the ‘Golden Age’ of the Vocal Group, the 1960’s. In fact, thinking about it, by the mid 1980’s the group sound had almost disapeared to be replaced by the single artist and ‘DJ’. Not sure exactly why? but it would probably have something to do with economics..the least people involved, the less money would have to be paid out. Producers are generally the people who earn the lions share of the ‘reddies’ leaving the artist, (especially in Jamaica), with very little. It’s a sad state of affairs that hopefully we are seeing change as the internet could and should reverse such injustice…let’s hope so.

This one is a Coxsone Dodd, (Studio 1), production from 1967 led by Wesley Tinglin, backed up, (probably) by Linval Williams and/or Daniel Bernard..

Listen Tune..

musicology #300

JamaicanVocalGroupAction #11

(The Wailers -Cry To Me)

So…the day has finally arrived when ‘The Project’ is revealed. (Imgs Below)

Allow me to elucidate..Ever since I first clapped eyes and ‘pulled up’ for my first ’statement Tee’, (shirt), back on a stall in Greenwich market as a sixteen year old, (1984), I have harboured a dream to design and produce screen prints that communicate a message. The one that spoke to me was the classic, (UK), Red and White Studio One Label, blown up and screen printed onto a plain white t-shirt. Nowdays it is not uncommon to see ‘Label Tees’ for all different genres but back then, (at least in London), it was fresh and new.

That Tee went everywhere with me and I always wore it with pride, connecting myself with the music and message of Ska, Rocksteady and Reggae. I still own and cherish that same Tee even though it has almost disintegrated and can’t be worn. So last year I decided to take the plunge and learn the art of screen printing. Essentially I am an ‘ideas man’ and my head and heart are full of tributes to Artists, Producers, Genres and even Songs, (among others), so the actual process of printing was neceesary to learn as I wanted to design, produce and provide authentic Tee Shirts that encapsulated the passion I have for Culture without dilution from external economic influences.

After 8 months I feel ready to share these ‘Tribute Tees’ with you and what better place to start than with the legendary Wailing Wailers who have had a major impact on themusicologist from my earliest days…

Available to order in Four ‘cuts’ and, (for now), Three Sizes, (Small / Medium / Large)

The 45, (Plain WhiteTee),  33, (Long Sleeve), Dubplate, (Bamboo&Organic Cotton), and The Sweat Shirt.

At the moment I am working on the most effective way to provide them online but for now the only way to make the transaction will be via my ebay account. It is more of a passion than a business but as we all know a man needs to make a living !! and this is the way I aim to do it by sharing a genuine passion for music, originality, style and culture wrapped up in the humble Tee or Sweatshirt…Feedback and Critique is most welcome, appreciated and valued.

The cut featured today is a song probably better known for the version on Marley’s Rastaman Vibration. But for themusicologist there is no comparison with this 1964? cut featuring the Wailers at their most effective and original. No doubt that as great as Bob Marley was he in no way overshadowed his two partners Bunny and Peter. This cut bears witness to that. Listening to this Trinity of cats harmonizing brings not only tears to my eyes but also joy to my ears and heart. The only downside is that it finishes….but at least it can be enjoyed for free and the message be spread far and wide.

Click on Images To See them in all their glory…

‘45′ Tee

‘33′ Tee

Sweatshirt

‘45′ Tee

musicology #294

JamaicanVocalGroupAction #5

(The Bassies – River Jordan)

Continuing this week with the JA selection. Originally it was only going to be a one week special but over the last few weeks I have been working like a Trojan to bring ‘the project’ into the next phase resulting in my not being able to dedicate as much time to themusicologist as I would have liked….(All will be revealed by the end of the week !!), Not only that but while perusing my Jamaica musical vaults it was obvious that 1 week would be nowhere near enough space for such a rich theme so it has to be extended.

On with the music…today’s slice of the Jamaican vocalist pie is one more from Coxsone Dodd’s mighty Studio 1 stable courtesy of a group known as The Bassies, featuring a young cat by the name of Fred Locks Rocking Steady as the sound was making the transition into what became known and loved the world over as Reggae.

musicology #291

JamaicanVocalGroupAction #2

(The Heptones – One Love)

Today’s cut is from the mighty Heptones, (Leroy Sibbles, Barry Llewelyn and Earl Morgan). One of the top ranking Jamaican vocal groups throughout the sixties and seventies. Not only that but Leroy Sibbles, (as mentioned previously on themusicologist), was an important part of Coxsone Dodd’s Studio One production team as Bass player, Musical director and all round musicologist during it’s ‘Golden Age’  until his departure for Canada in 1973. With Jackie Mittoo and Leroy gone Studio 1 began to lose it’s edge until younger Cats like Sugar Minott took up the baton a few years later. This, (1971?), piece is a slice from them glorious, Golden days off the album Freedom Line

musicology #265

sleighbellsring #13

(Horace Andy – Christmas Time)

Ranking slice of the Christmas pie from the ‘Golden Age’ of Studio 1 featuring the vocal talents of none other than Horace Andy.

musicology #253

sleighbellsring #1

(The Maytals – Christmas Feeling)

Day one of the Christmas selection. I’m just going to lay them down without much ‘commentary’. First up is a slice from Jamaica..proof, if needed, that it doesn’t require snow, reindeer or Jack Frost nipping at yer nose to generate the Christmas spirit. Early sixties cut from the Legendary Maytals.

musicology #233

communication #11

(The Wailers – Dreamland)

This one is dedicated to the woman of my dreams who I have had the pleasure of spending half my life with. and even though we are in the process of seperation and our paths are taking different turns I will, (and do), love and cherish her for as long as I draw breath. Yesterday was her 40th Birthday and I wanted to lay this one down especially for her.

As far as I’m concerned this is the Wailers at their best. ‘Bunny’ delivers lead on this one with Peter and Bob harmonising in true Impressions style and is yet another piece of majesty from Coxsone Dodd’s Studio1 label. I grew up listening to and being inspired by Third World’s version of this song from their, (1977), ‘96 Degrees In The Shade’ LP and much as I cherish that version this ‘marrow trembler’ brings me to my knees whenever I hear it.

musicology #221

tribute to alton #1

(Alton Ellis – I’ll Be Waiting)

regular vistors to themusicologist may recall a section flung down entitled sixartistsixweeksixtune. one of the artists featured was Alton Ellis (#90-95) who passed through this existence on Friday October 9th.

like to take this ‘opportunity’ to lay down a few more slices of the man’s legacy. starting with this one recorded for downbeat’s legendary Studio 1.  Alton Ellis..Rest In Peace.

‘JAH’ one more for you x

musicology #201

teachings of billionaire YenTzu #11

(Ernest Wilson – Undying Love)

penultimate cut of the Yen Tzu selection…

Kissing The Scorpion (following your true nature)

‘This will be ideal for my meditations,’ thought a wandering  sage, seeking a cave in the wilderness. Upon entering it, however, he noticed the skeletal remains of many human corpses.  Unconcerned, he sat down on a rock to rest from his travels.

‘How you answer will seal your fate!’ boomed a voice, and turning the sage saw that before him was a gigantic scorpion, the size of a large man.

‘As your questions have undoubtedly sealed yours,’ replied the sage calmly.

‘What manner of Man are you to be without trace of fear?’ demanded the giant scorpion. ‘For the nature of Man is to be afraid.’

‘Not so,’ answered the sage. ‘For in truth the nature of Man is to be in balance, and such a state comes when he has no fear of what life may confront him with, because he is in love with the true meaning of life. As my thoughts and actions have led me to this place, how can I fear it? To do so is to fear myself, which I do not, for I have only love for the person that I am.’

‘Then you are rare indeed,’ said the scorpion, ‘for the men who have come before you have been escaping from themselves, as one seeks to leave another within a loveless relationship.’

‘You speak as one who has experienced such,’ said the sage intuitively, ‘for your visage is not strong enough to hide the pain, frustration and indeed anger that you exude.’

‘It would seem that truthful perception is yours to command,’ answered the fearsome creature. ‘Because in truth I was as a man once, long ago, until my ruthlessness attracted a demon seeking a disciple. My resistance to it resulted in having my current condition cast upon me. But because what was left of my original nature was able to resist, the demon was compelled to allow my situation a reversal. Though little use it has been. For of all those who have approached my lair these past long years, none have caused the spell to be reversed.’

‘Because no doubt they must answer of their own accord and without direction,’ said the sage. ‘An accord distorted by their fear.’

‘Exactly so! and now you will forgive me if I become impatient to address the riddle I must ask of you!’ said the scorpion. ‘If you refuse to answer, cannot or your answer is wrong, then I thank you in advance for our debate, for afterwards it will be too late.’

‘Proceed as you wish,’ the sage said, ‘for it is of little consequence.’

‘Take heed though,’ advised the scorpion ‘that immediately after I have incanted my words I will be rendered helpless in order to allow you to make your choice. Although you are weaponless, there are many swords around you that are sharp enough to enable even the weakest of arms to slice off my deadly tail. And so:

‘When you embrace the most deadly, you overcome your worst fears;
When you act the least likely, there can be nothing but tears;
When you act from the heart and engage worthy might,
Then to the end from the start, you have held to what’s right;
Your balance to death will be as it is for your life,
To do one over the other, can bring sorrow and strife;
when you act as you do because you are as you be,
You will know if a kiss or a strike is the key.

‘Quickly!’ added the now motionless scorpion looking menacingly into the eyes of the sage. ‘You have the opportunity to strike me.’

‘My answer is as my action,’ said the sage and calmly outstretched his arms and kissed the creature on it’s evil-looking head. Immediately the scorpion was transformed and it was now a man that stood before him. With the spell broken, tears flowed freely down the large man’s cheeks and he fell at the feet of the sage in gratitude. As the sage helped him up, the large man said,

‘You chose correctly, yet why were you so sure, when the nature of a scorpion is to strike when face to face with it’s adversary?’

‘Because deep down you were still a man,’ said the sage, ‘and it is the true-nature of a man to love, not strike. And as the riddle implied, transforming you back into a man is the greatest risk to overcome, because Man can be more deadly than any scorpion. Acting in the least likely way of not seemingly protecting myself could only release your tears. Those tears a man has prior to his transformation and the tears of happiness that follow it. Furthermore because I am in a state of balance I can but only act in a right manner.’

‘I am indeed fortunate to have found such a natural individual to release me from my predicament,’ said the man.

‘Fortune has nothing to do with it,’ replied the sage with finality. ‘It was your own need to return to your true vocation that attracted you to me, and it was my own thoughts to test my own vocation that led me to you. All of us are interdependent of others whether we are aware of it or not. As such, all of us are both teachers and students, appearing as appropriate to one another when each is ready. That is how we can fulfil our true vocation. Learning how to express it effectively requires a state of balance. For only in such a state can we act as our true nature intended.’

musicology #153

duets2 #2

(Beres Hammond & Marcia Griffiths – Live On)

I had planned on throwing this one down yesterday but for some unknown reason my internet connection was playing tricks and locked me out of the ‘information highway’
so i’m taking this opportunity to fling it now in case it happens again.

day two of the duets selection is one of the tunes that drew me back to the sweet sounds of Jamaica in 1993 after a year spent in the musical wilderness waiting to be inspired after 5 years listening, playing and DJ’ing ‘house’ which by then had made the transition from under to overground and was being used to to sell cat food, yoghurt, etc …

the male vocal comes from the pipes of the mighty Beres Hammond whose career stretches back to the early 70’s but for themusicologist it was throughout the 90’s that he established himself as one of Reggae’s greats. one of those rare artists who rarely seem to put a foot wrong, (Bobby Bland is another who springs to mind), this cat could charm the birds out of the trees with his blend of harmony, sincerity and effortless timing.

the female vocal is courtesy of the queen of Jamaican music .. Marcia Griffiths. whose career stretches way back into the sixties, first as solo singer, (1964), then in tandem with Bob Andy, (musicology #37), then as member of Bob Marley & the Wailers backing group the I-Threes.

this piece, (which I never tire of hearing), produced by Donovan Germain for his trend setting Penthouse label is a slice of the ‘College Rock’ rhythm from 1992/3, a ‘digital’ reworking of Jackie Mittoo’s late 60’s Studio1 cut ‘Freak Out’…

beautiful song sung expertly by two of Jamaica’s premier vocalists….one especially for all the couples out there who understand what it takes to hold on when the road is rough and rocky.

“live on….”

musicology #113

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #36

(New Establishment – People Skanking)

final cut from Jackie and the last of the six/six/six. it was a toss up between this and a tune called Wall Street, (which is one of my personal favourites), but I went with this one because, for me, it sums up perfectly how music can give you the strength, (and courage), to keep on ’stepping’ in the right direction. One of those ‘call to arms’ tunes that not only communicates but also delivers…another diamond from the Studio1 showroom that does exactly what the title suggests.

just leaves me to thank you all for listening and the six artists;

Sam Cooke / Stevie Marriott / Alton Ellis / Curtis Mayfield / Paul Weller and Jackie Mittoo for providing the ammunition over the past six weeks to ‘lick shot’

musicology #112

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #35

(Wailers – Rude Boy)

penultimate slice of musicology on the six/six/six and one from Jamaica’s most famous vocal group, The Wailers.

Not sure whether this had a UK release at the time? the one we are hearing is taken from the Coxsone Import 45. But with a title like ‘Rude Boy’ it wouldn’t have got much promotion on these English shores. As we all know the Wailers went on, (certainley Marley anyway), to become a household name. Jackie Mittoo on the other hand didn’t receive anywhere near the recognition that he deserved for all the musicology he brought to each and every Studio1 session from 1963 up to his emigration to Canada in 1969? which is, unfortunately, an all too common story when it comes to the cats who  played the instruments.

Arranger, Piano player session leader and all round musicologist it would have been Jackie, (as much as any single artist), that drove the music towards the Spaghetti Western influenced, Gun Man Style that was to become more popular as the times got tougher and the rudies got ruder in Kingston, Jamaica.

for themusicologist Jamaican music is still the ‘voice of the people’….how long will it last? only time will tell but from 1962 to today it has always reflected and communicated the thoughts and feelings of the ‘man on the street’ .. and this one is no exception.

musicology #111

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #34

(Karl Bryan & The Afrokats – Money Generator)

no post yesterday…got caught up in too much ‘he say she say’ which took the wind out of themusicologists sails so couldn’t find the enthusiasm and motivation to invest the time, emotion and energy required for posting so thought it best to let yesterday go.

it’s a hard life and no mistake when you have to fight every inch of the way…it’s relentless and you can’t let your guard down for a minute and when you do there’s always someone ready with a metaphorical, (or if you’re really unlucky a physical), snaking jab, right hook, ‘glasgow kiss’ or a good old kick in the bollocks to remind you of the ’struggle’.

anyway enough of that…just wanted to let youse know where themusicologist is ‘at’ and why I left you ’swinging’ yesterday. Todays cut finds Jackie Mittoo keeping not only keeping time with his organ playing but also supervising, arranging and maybe even writing the music for this session.

for themusicologist this period of Studio1 musicology is beyond compare…the Golden Age where everyone involved at Brentford Road was at the top of their ‘game’.

One of the reasons Studio1 became such a mecca for the islands musicologists is that Coxsone would let the cats smoke the collie at the Studio, (something that no other recording studio allowed at the time), helping create the vibes that allowed such innovative and emotional music to flow.

We all know that many a musician has leaned on the ‘green crutch’ throughout history and Jamaica is no exception…no doubt it enhances creativity, supresses hunger and ‘packs up your troubles in the old kit bag’ while under the influence and Coxsone who didn’t encourage it, but was smart enough to know it’s positive qualities, turned a blind eye.

love this haunting, melancholic, emotion charged slice of musicology and for me the title nails it it two words.

musicology #110

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #33

(Cout Ossie & The Cyclones – Meditation)

words can’t do this one justice so I’ll leave it up to Count Ossie, Jackie Mitto and Leroy Sibbles to converse with you.

musicology #109

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #32

(Bob Andy – Feeling Soul)

Donat Roy Mittoo was born in Kingston, (on March 3rd 1948), and grew up around music as language.

a child prodigy it was Clement Seymour Dodd, (Studio1 Boss), who presented him with the opportunity as a teenager (16 !!), to not only supervise the sessions at his newly formed Brentford Road Studio but also be a founder member of the legendary Skatalites…..

So let’s get that clear, Jackie Mittoo, (at the age of 16), joined some of the cream of Jamaican musicologists to heaed the greatest instrumental group to come out of Jamaica, as well as supervise the recording sessions at the birth of Studio1.

as that sinks in hold this next cut..it’s a Bob Andy classic from around 1969 I would imagine but it’s got Jackie all over it, (organist, arranger, musicologist), the only other backing musician I can be sure of identifying would be Leroy Sibbles playing bass..

musicology #108

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #31

(Jackie Mittoo – Juice Box)

final week of the six/six/six…and themusicologist would like to take this opportunity to let you know how much I have appreciated your support..last month, (and last week), set new records on themusicologist for ‘viewers/listeners’ which is encouraging. it means a lot to me to know that you are feeling the selection.

just as Soul would have taken an alternative route without Sam Cooke and Curtis Mayfield..the musical arts of Jamaica wouldn’t sound like they do without this next ‘artist’ whose skills as arranger, composer, player of instruments and ‘eye of the needle’ at the legendary Studio1 are well known to all who listen to Jamaican music.

many a great singer, song writer and instrumentalist has sprung from Jamaica’s well of musicologists but Jackie Mittoo’s contribution to developing the music known now as ‘Reggae’, (a one size fits all label that doesn’t have much meaning), demands and deserves a tribute selection in his honour.

this first cut from the album ‘Keep On Dancing’ was recorded and released in 1969 and features the man in his role as ‘Organist’, (one of the instruments that he went on to perfect..ranking with the best of ‘em), wicked piece of Jamaican Funk for your Monday musical pleasure.

musicology #93

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #16

(Alton Ellis – I’m Still In Love)

a piece of Valentines day musicology delivered by Mr Soul of Jamaica…Alton Ellis.

if it sounds familiar but you can’t quite place it this is the original cut to Trinity’s top ranking Saturday night special ‘Three Peice Suit’ which in turn spawned the more well known cut by Althea & Donna ..’Uptown Top Ranking’

musicology #92

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #15

(Alton Ellis – Hurting Me)

next piece from Mr Ellis…yet another Brentford Road, (Studio1), diamond.

one from out of the top drawer..with what sounds like the Heptones on backing vocals..definately Leroy Sibbles on the ‘four string’ delivering the essential bassline vibes.

Studio1, (and Leroy Sibbles in particular), pioneered the bass as an essential reggae ingredient. before him the bass was almost inaudible..maybe it was due to the fact that not only was Leroy Sibbles an all round musicologist in charge of arrangement, production, (after Jackie Mittoo left for Canada), and vocal duties but he was also resident bass player at the peak of the Studio1 sound.

stands to reason that he would favour the bass drenched approach, (although the ‘ganja’ must have had something to do with it too !!), anyway hold this top ranking cut sung by Alton with all the soul a man can muster…no wonder he was known as Mr Soul Of Jamaica…a richly deserved title…one of themusicologists favourite reggae cuts, slides into the dubwise..dancehall, discomix style.

musicology #91

sixartist, sixtune, sixweekspecial #14

(Alton Ellis – You Make Me Happy)

day two of the Alton selection is a piece from the early 70’s cut for Jamaica’s dominant production house, Coxsone Dodd’s Studio1. After a succesfull spell at rival Duke Reid’s Treasure Isle singing rocksteady classics Alton returned to Studio1, (I imagine), as the sweet and heavy sounds coming out of Brentford Road at that time were second to none, (Treasure Isle was also on it’s last legs)

With musicologists such as Jackie Mitto and Leroy Sibbles, (to name but two), at the controls the Studio1 sound had evolved into something special as well as unique and no studio could contest Dodd’s during this period. (it would take Channel 1, structured on the Studio1 sound, to try and wrest control from Coxsone in the mid 70’s),

Alton and Coxsone collaborated successfully at the birth of the Jamaican music industry in 1959 and although there would have been no love lost due to their previous financial dealings both knew their musical ‘onions’ inside out and had great respect for each others musical knowledge so a reunion was always on the cards…Alton Ellis had a very special quality that few possess, namely to make any tune sound like his own..

this song, (extended dancehall ‘discomix’), co written by Brenda Holloway and Frank Wilson, was made ‘famous’ by the group Blood, Sweat & Tears but for themusicologist Alton’s is the one that does it most justice…

for another example of the man’s special quality check Alton’s rendition of the Bee Gees song Massachusetts, (musicology #60), thrown down during ‘coversweek’

musicology #68

themusicologist@thebbc part 3. (Cedric ‘Im’ Brooks – Mun Dun Gu)

this weeks selection is yet another from the Studio1 stable, Jamaica’s premier production house. progressive and innovative it reflected owner and musicologist Coxsone Dodd’s love of ‘the new’ in every sense.

for themusicologist this piece feels like hope and, (synchronistically), has a ‘better must come’ flavour. driving, determined and focused …. 2008 in a nutshell !!!

so for all the 2007 sufferers, (and I know there’s many), consign last year to history, mark it down to experience and Move On Up with this slice of musical connection and communication.

Wishing all of you the very best for the coming year and thanking you for your support in 2007. BIG things a gwaan in 2008, keep it locked, loaded and musical.

p.s last of the bbc selection for now. hopefully back in the radio saddle some time in 2008 for some more slices of musicology….thanks to brother Sean Rowley, (and Jim), for providing themusicologist with the opportunity to reach out and, (hopefully), connect with the Joy Of Music crew.

musicology #60

coversweek day 7 (Alton Elllis – Massachusetts)

last of the covers and what better way to call it a day than with the soulful voice of Alton Ellis, a foundation artist who helped shape the Jamaica sound that we know and love. To be honest I don’t know the original too tough, I’ve heard it a few times but for me Alton makes it his own.

taken from one of the first reggae LP’s I had the pleasure of procuring, full of top cuts, straight out of the top drawer and yet another from the Brentford road crew… (might have to make a separate category for Mr Dodd as time goes by).
ahhh, sweet music…

musicology #56

coversweek .. day #4 (I Shall Be Released – Heptones)

“I see the light come shining from the west up to the east … anyday now, anyday now… I shall be released”

top ranking piece of Studio1 ‘ sufferers’ action from one of the great Jamaican vocal groups. Leroy Sibbles was also musical director, arranger, bass player, producer, (along with Sylvan Morris) and all round musicologist for the Brentford Road powerhouse after Jackie Mittoo had packed his bags for Canada in 1971.

the lyrics are courtesy of Bob Dylan who may or may not have been aware of this cover due to the non existent copyright laws on the island … but i’m sure he would have approved as the group certainly brought something new to the song.

musicology #37

doublebubble .. day3

(Bob & Marcia – Always Together)

one of themusicologists favourite duets. this time from 1970 and the island of Jamaica. epitomising the sound of late 60’s early 70’s reggae and one that many a genuine rudeboy/skinhead would have moved to down at El Partido.

I have 3 versions of this, the UK mix/the dancehall 12″ and this one which, after much deliberation is the one that has come out on top. I love the 12″ just as much but it’s more of a specialists cut, (9 mins long), made for playing ‘in the dance’….

the male singer in the duet is also the songwriter, (one of Jamaicas finest poets), and I would imagine, for this session at least, is heavily involved in arrangement, production and final mix down. no prizes for guessing that its yet another Studio1 production.

musicology #28

day 1..mansweek

(Ken Parker – Choking Kind)

this is a big challenge. selecting 7 male vocal pieces from the vaults when the truth is it could easily be 7 from one artist or one year !! so without delay and to ‘set the speed’ .. heres the first piece from none other than the Brentford Road reggae powerhouse known as Studio 1 the place where musical history and magic were made on a regular basis.

almost all the reggae greats learnt the ropes under the direction of mr Coxsone Dodd a genuine musicologist who knew his onions inside out ..

this week, it’s seven from themusicologists heart which some may find ‘painful’. if thats the case then pretend you were on holiday because the ‘truth’ is something that I can’t hide.