by Howard Campbell
SOUTH FLORIDA – Aah, Jamaica! The nation is synonymous with all-inclusive resorts, white, sand seashores, Crimson Stripe Beer and spicy delicacies. On August 6, Independence Day in Jamaica, many People have been impressed to write down songs celebrating this event.
Jamaica Farewell (Harry Belafonte)
From the singer/activist’s groundbreaking 1956 album, Calypso, this observe displays on Belafonte’s early years in Jamaica the place his mom was born. Written by African American Irving Burgie.
Oh Jamaica (Ben E. King)
The influential soul singer was immensely widespread in Jamaica, having first carried out there within the Sixties. Oh Jamaica was launched in 1965 as a part of Seven Letters, his fifth studio album. The relaxed rhythm of the tune completely displays the optimistic outlook of Jamaica because it marked its third 12 months of independence.
You’re My Jamaica (Charley Pleasure)
The lead observe from the nation artist’s album launched in 1979. It obtained common radio play in Jamaica the place Pleasure’s hits like Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’ and Somebody Loves You Honey have been additionally widespread. Reggae singer JC Lodge had a profitable cowl of the latter tune.
Jamaica (Bobby Caldwell)
A longtime Miami resident, Caldwell is thought globally for What You Received’t do For Love, the colossal single that helped spark the quiet storm motion within the late Nineteen Seventies. Having rubbed shoulders with many reggae musicians within the Magic Metropolis, Jamaica is a becoming tribute to the nation that impressed a lot of Caldwell’s music.
Negril (Eric Gale)
A guitarist with Barbadian roots, Gale’s refined riffs helped outline the sleek jazz style. You may hear him on songs like Roberta Flack’s Killing me Softly With His Music and It’s my Home by Diana Ross. Negril is a 1975 album he recorded whereas hanging out within the Jamaican seaside city. That includes Peter Tosh on guitar, and Wailers bassist Aston “Familyman” Barrett, Negril’s jazz-reggae mix makes it a uncommon, sought-after gem.
