Bunny Rugs TRIBUTE - Jamaica Way

02/17/14 • 121 min

Jamaica Way Reggae Podcast also see- soundcloud.com/jaway-665380859

Bunny Rugs was an early member of Inner Circle, worked as an earlier duo member with “Bunny & Ricky” and recorded "Freedom Fighter" and "Bushweed Corntrash," but he is best known as the front man for Third World. Bunny had a magnificent voice that he maintained throughout his career. His voice was strong, powerful, and commanding. It’s hard to separate Bunny Rugs from Third World as the image is strong and cohesive. When William Clark – Bunny Rugs passed away, we played two hours of his music in tribute. Our selections included two solo albums “Talking To You” on Shanachie and “Time” which was release in 2012. More treasures are contained in the Third World recordings. Dozens and dozens of releases to choose from and we built a “top ten” on the spot which was based on listener calls and requests. Bunny Rugs joined Third World after Milton Hamilton left in 1976. In the following decades the core group of Third World consisted of Bunny Rugs, Irvin “Carrot” Jarrett, Michael “Ibo” Cooper, Stephen “Cat” Coore, Richie Daley, and Willie Stewart. Third World recorded for the Island/Mango label and allowed for high quality recordings to accompany the skilled instrumentalists that are Third World. Most members of Third World are unique in their formal musical training. As part of their performances, Cat Coore would bring out his cello and play a reggae laced song with that rich classical feel that the cello provides. Third World stood out in what might be called a “golden era” of reggae bands of the 70s-80’s in Jamaica. Third World’s style is what set them apart – they were crossing over into American Soul with songs like “Now That We Found Love” and Try Jah Love.” Listening back now, the music is deep and soulful with a smooth groove, very different from today’s sound. Third World’s legacy is strong in lyrical content. Rastafari, culture and social issues were always a focus. A focus which was not altered. Tracks like “Cold Sweat,” “Jah Glory,” “African Woman,” and “Shine Like A Blazing Fire” convey this reliable, rootsical message. The uptown Third World bridged the message from the heart of Jamaica and worked alongside the greats in reggae music history as partners. Bunny Rugs was a great singer, as a group Third World is great in the studio and on vinyl and when performing live, they are a joy.

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Jamaica Way - Luciano – The Messenger

Jamaica Way - Luciano – The Messenger We spoke with Luciano and he reasoned on Rastafari and his visit to Africa. This podcast features that commentary along with a series of ”mutant singles” by Luciano. Mutant in the sense that they are all 7” releases not thought to be widely distributed (not on albums or major labels). In the late 80’s – early 90’s, Luciano recorded dubplates for neighborhood sounds until he and Ricky Trooper crossed paths. Trooper recognized Luciano’s singing ability and took him to the Aquarius recording studio in Half Way Tree Square. Fatis Burrell of Exterminator Productions managed Luciano along with Sizzla and Turbulance at a time of dramatic growth of the Bobo Dread movement. Over time Luciano expanded his recording limitlessly, recording on singles, albums and under contract with International labels. Luciano clearly does not believe in overexposure. In the early 1980’s when Yellowman and singer Don Carlos released volumes of singles and albums, some felt that recording and releasing too much would be harmful to an artist. Overexposure appears to be a thing of the past as the baritone voice of Luciano has benefitted from recording widely, now with over 40 albums in his wake. *Thanks to the Central Village Crew from Cleveland – Survivalist, Sparticus, Willpower, and Tan Tan. (Original tracks – songs not played to full length, but plenty for you to enjoy. The intention is to encourage you to buy Luciano music and support the artists and producers. Visit your local music shop or www.ebreggae .com or even www.Amazon.com to get hold of some great Reggae music. TRACKS: World Peace – John John – Lloyd James Junior – 7” Hail Rastafari – Reggae central – 2006 – 7” Good Times – Mac Dada – 7” All Fruits Ripe – Junk Yard – Scarkmooch – 7” World Leaders – Roots Rockers Music – 7” Rock and Come In – Thompson Sound – Kevan Thompson – 7” Fire and Ice – Main Frame Records – 7” What Is Man – South Block – Michael Sterling – 7” When Will Things Change (with Tony Rebel) – Big League – 7”

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Phillip Smart - "Smart Reggae" Programme 1985

This is a radio program in original form that Phillip Smart distributed in approximately 1985. The intention was to syndicate the program and it is not know if the program continued or not. Mr. Smart also operated a program from New York University's WNYU radio station called "Get Smart" during the years 1979 to 2004. Surely what is aired here was inspired and fueled though the work at WNYU. Phillip Smart was a recording studio owner, recording engineer, producer, radio host and one that must be remembered when it comes to Jamaican music history. Mr. Smart worked with King Tubby as an apprentice until a move to New York City in 1976. In New York City Mr. Smart started the HC&F recording studio. Enjoy this vintage radio program. It will make you smarter. Rich Lowe www.reggaejamaicaway.com