Stranger Cole

Stranger Cole (born Wilburn Theodore Cole) is a Jamaican music legend whose career spans the golden eras of ska, rocksteady, and early reggae. Bursting onto the scene in the 1960s, his raw, soulful voice became a staple at producer Duke Reid’s Treasure Isle studio, where he cut timeless duets with Patsy Todd like *When I Call Your Name* and solo hits like *Rough & Tough* – tracks that still sound fiery decades later. Known for his gritty storytelling and infectious energy, Cole’s work helped shape the sound of Jamaican music, blending streetwise attitude with irresistible rhythms.

Decades into his career, Cole remains a vital force, as shown by recent releases like *Bangarang (Re-Recorded)* and *More Life*, which prove his voice hasn’t lost an ounce of its punch. Whether he’s revisiting classics or dropping new material, his music bridges generations, connecting ska’s heyday to modern dancehall and beyond. Tracks like *Koffee* and *Hold You Jack / Bangarang* highlight his knack for staying fresh while staying true to that unmistakable Jamaican roots vibe.

Genres

Rocksteady

Ska

Reggae

Roots Reggae

World

Dancehall

Dub

Reggae Fusion

Lovers Rock

Jamaican Music

Related Artists

Chronixx

Koffee

Protoje

Kabaka Pyramid

Alton Ellis

John Holt

The Skatalites

Jesse Royal

Desmond Dekker

The Wailers

Jimmy Cliff

The Upsetters

Latest Release

Low Rider

Stranger Cole

Single - Released February 7, 2025