Johnny Clarke stands as one of reggae's most distinctive voices, emerging as a pioneer during the golden era of Jamaican music in the 1970s. Born on January 12, 1955, in Kingston, Jamaica, Clarke's journey into the music industry began in his teenage years, and he quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the roots reggae scene. Clarke's rise to fame occurred amidst the incisive social commentary and spiritually charged atmosphere of the time, themes that were often reflected in his lyrics.

Throughout his illustrious career, Johnny Clarke has collaborated with some of the genre's most iconic producers, including Bunny 'Striker' Lee, with whom he developed a significant partnership that would define much of his sound. They worked together on the milestone recording "None Shall Escape the Judgement" which became an immediate hit and established Clarke as a star. His distinctive "flying cymbal" sound became a hallmark of his recordings in the mid-70s. Clarke's rich catalog, which includes albums like "Reggae Legends: Johnny Clarke," "Creation Rebel," and "Sings Hits from Studio One," showcases his versatility and passion for the genre, earning him international acclaim. As a testament to his influence and ongoing appeal, latest compilations such as "Johnny Clarke Selects Reggae" and "The Aggrovators Present: Johnny Clarke," continue to celebrate his music, providing new generations with a window into the heart of classic reggae music.

Genres

Dub

Lovers Rock

Old School Dancehall

Reggae

Rocksteady

Roots Reggae

Latest Release

CHILDREN CRYING

Johnny Clarke

Single - Released June 7, 2024