Randy's Rocksteady To Reggae

The all too brief Rocksteady period of Jamaican music lasted only 1 ½ years between 1966 and 1968. Many of the most influential rhythms and classic records released in Jamaica were recorded in this short but very productive and creative era. The music had slowed down from the rapid pace of the Ska beat and this allowed solo singers, harmony groups and the musicians themselves to deliver a more soulful, cool and melodic sound.

After a successful run as a Ska producer in the late 50’s and early 60’s Vincent “Randy”    Chin set his focus on opening his very own studio. There was a void in the Kingston studio scene for a facility where independent producers would be able to book studio time and create their own music. During Rocksteady Mr. Chin did just that. By 1969 coinciding with the birth of a new sound called “Reggae”, Randy’s Studio 17 was finally complete and fully operational.  Although focused mainly on this project he did spend some time in the studio, notably with Randy’s hit-maker Lord Creator cutting late Rocksteady numbers such as “Such Is Life” and “Come Down ‘68”, which is featured on this collection.

Covering the transition from Rocksteady into Reggae, this crucial 12 track collection features rare Rocksteady released on various Randy’s subsidiaries, along with a handful of some of the earliest Reggae numbers recorded at the brand new Randy’s Studio 17 in 1969. The facility would go on to become a landmark in Reggae music history.