Cleveland Watkiss

Cleveland Watkiss is a British vocalist, composer, and pioneer whose career bridges jazz, dub, electronic, and experimental music. A key figure in the UK’s 1980s jazz revival, he co-founded the influential Jazz Warriors collective, which spotlighted Black British talent. Known for his soulful, versatile voice and improvisational flair, Watkiss has collaborated with legends like Talvin Singh, Courtney Pine, and Sun Ra Arkestra, effortlessly weaving reggae, soul, and spoken word into his sound. His recent work—like the groove-heavy *Music’s Got Soul*, the rootsy *Babylon too Rough*, and the genre-blurring *Electronica Pt 1*—showcases his knack for reinventing classics and pushing boundaries. Whether reimagining Jamaican standards (*The Great Jamaican Songbook*) or exploring spiritual jazz themes (*Cristo Redentor*), Watkiss remains a dynamic force, celebrating music’s power to connect cultures and uplift souls.

Genres

Acid Jazz

Drum And Bass

Jungle

Latest Release

Music's Got Soul (Benny L Remix)

Cleveland Watkiss•

Benny L

Single - Released March 24, 2023