Roy Shirley, born Ainsworth Roy Rushton Shirley, was a pivotal figure in the development of Jamaican music, particularly regarded as one of the original innovators of the rocksteady genre. Born on July 18, 1944, in Kingston, Jamaica, Shirley began his music career in the early 1960s, achieving fame with his distinctive vibrato-laden voice and flamboyant performances.

His 1967 hit “Hold Them” is often cited as one of the earliest rocksteady records, marking a transition from the fast-paced ska that dominated Jamaica's music scene to the slower, more soulful rocksteady sound. Shirley's contributions to the genre were significant and he continued to make his mark with tracks like “Music Field,” “The Winner,” and “I Am the Winner,” which showcase his unique singing style and the rhythmic shift that characterized the era.

Despite not having the commercial success of some of his contemporaries, Roy Shirley's influence on reggae and rocksteady is undeniable. His journey through the music scene saw him working with some of the greats, such as the Aggrovators and King Tubby, with these collaborations documented in anthologies like "Roy Shirley Meets Aggrovators & King Tubby." Albums such as “Reggae Roy Shirley” and "Sound Box Essentials Platinum Edition" further celebrate his work and highlight his contribution to the genre's evolution. Throughout his career, Shirley's passionate performances and distinctive voice won him a devoted following, and his artistry continues to be celebrated in collections like “Roy Shirley Essentials.” Shirley passed away on July 17, 2008, but his legacy lives on through the rich treasure trove of music he left behind and his influence on generations of reggae musicians.

Genres

Early Reggae

Rocksteady

Latest Release

Roy Shirley Essentials

Roy Shirley

Album - 22 Tracks - Released October 20, 2014