King Jammy goes digital

AN American company has teamed with influential producer Lloyd 'King Jammy' James to distribute 10 of his albums digitally.

The company, 21st Hapilos Digital, announced that it will release 'best of' collections from Gregory Isaacs, Horace Andy, Sugar Minott, Johnny Clarke and Linval Thompson.

Albums from roots singers Michael Prophet, Barry Brown and Eccleton Jarrett, as well as deejay General Trees and harmony trio The Tamlins complete the list of 21st Hapilos Digital releases.

Each contains Jammys productions of songs that made most of the artistes popular. In the case of Andy, Skylarking and Girl I Love You.

READ MORE:
21st Hapilos Digital Releases Must Have King Jammys "Best Of" Collection For All Reggae Music Lovers

The Jammys catalogue is a formidable one, comprising some of the biggest hits in dancehall and roots-reggae of the 1980s and 1990s.

One of his biggest productions is Under mi Sleng Teng, a massive hit for singer Wayne Smith in 1985. It is recognised as one of the early computerised dancehall songs and dramatically transformed the genre's sound.

James has been reissuing his catalogue in recent years through VP Records' popular 17 North Parade series.

The majority of Jammys hit songs were recorded at his legendary studio in the St Andrew community of Waterhouse.

Most of the biggest names in dancehall, from Tenor Saw to Cocoa Tea and Shabba Ranks, have recorded hit songs for the Jammys label.

(from Jamaica Observer)