Desmond Dekker & The Aces

Desmond Dekker & The Aces were a pivotal force in Jamaican music, blending ska, rocksteady, and reggae styles. Born Desmond Adolphus Dacres on July 16, 1941, in Saint Andrew Parish, Jamaica, Dekker rose to fame with hits like "007 (Shanty Town)" and "Israelites," which became one of the first international reggae hits in 1968. His music career began after a series of auditions, eventually leading to a record deal with Leslie Kong's Beverley's label. Dekker's backing group, The Aces, consisted of Wilson James and Easton Barrington Howard, and later included the Howard brothers. His songs often captured the essence of Jamaican culture and were influential in the UK mod scene.

Dekker's legacy extends beyond his own hits, as he also played a role in launching the career of Bob Marley by introducing him to Leslie Kong. Dekker's music continued to be celebrated throughout his life, with re-releases and remixes of his classic tracks, such as "Israelites," remaining popular even after his passing on May 25, 2006. His impact on the evolution of reggae and ska remains significant, making him a beloved figure in the history of Jamaican music.

Genres

Rocksteady

Ska

Reggae

Roots Reggae

Pop

Rock

World

Dancehall

Dub

Early Reggae

Jamaican Ska

Related Artists

Jimmy Cliff

Prince Buster

Alton Ellis

The Skatalites

The Ethiopians

The Specials

The Wailers

The Upsetters

Bob Marley & The Wailers

Derrick Morgan

Madness

John Holt

Latest Release

Israelites (JFB Remix)

Desmond Dekker & The Aces•

JFB

Single - Released December 18, 2020