roots

On an island renowned for its superb vocalists and composers, John Holt still stands head and shoulders above the rest as one of Jamaica's sweetest singers and enduring songwriters. He has voiced and penned so many of the country's classics that in a way, Holt has defined the island's sound. Born in the Greenwich Farm area of Kingston, Jamaica, on July 11, 1947, the young Holt took his first steps into the music business via the talent show circuit. Talent shows have always had a massive popularity in Jamaica and the top ones were initially broadcast live on radio and later on television.

Makating are a reggae band based in Oxford. They have been together for over 7 years and are now 10 members strong, including a 3 piece horn section. Well known for their live acts both locally and in similar scenes around the UK, Makating are a captivating group of performers. The core band Makating (meaning something 'powerful') was formed from a week long studio session in December 1994. Surprised by the results, the band rehearsed as an eight piece and performed their first shows in March 1995 quickly building a strong local following.

Daley grew up in Waltham Park Road, Kingston, and, influenced by American soul and Jamaican artists such as Dennis Brown, began his singing career by entering local talent shows. He became the lead vocalist for the group The Flaming Phonics, playing live around Jamaica. Daley decided to drop out of school to pursue his music career, which prompted his mother to throw him out of the family home. Needing to make some money, the group tried out for producer Duke Reid, but left before finishing their recording for him due to his habit of firing live gunshots in the studio.

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For the Ecuadorian reggae group see Papá Changó Whether you