Rico Rodriguez was a legendary Jamaican trombonist best known for his influential role in ska, reggae, and dub music. Born Emmanuel Rodriguez in Havana, Cuba in 1934 and raised in Jamaica, he studied music at the renowned Alpha Boys School, which produced many of Jamaica's top musicians. Rico’s signature trombone sound became a cornerstone of the early ska movement in the 1960s, working with artists like Prince Buster and The Skatalites.
Later moving to the UK, he became a key figure in the British ska revival of the late 1970s and early '80s, collaborating notably with The Specials and Jools Holland. His solo work, including the acclaimed album Man from Wareika, showcased his deep roots in jazz and reggae. Over the years, Rico received several honors for his contributions to music, including being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2007. His soulful trombone playing left an indelible mark on global music.
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