By Kelvin Kachingwe—
AFTER being treated to Luciano, local reggae fans are in for another treat from Genius Riddims Promotions who are bringing another renowned Jamaican reggae artist in Don Carlos.
Having learnt that the Government Complex in Lusaka is not the most ideal venue for a reggae show, the organisers have moved the show to Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka and Diggers Rugby Club in Kitwe.
Dubbed Harvest Time Reggae Concert, Don Carlos and his Dub Vision Band will first perform at Woodlands Stadium on May 9 and Diggers Club in Kitwe the following day. A third show on Sunday is on the cards but the venue is yet to be confirmed. Charges are pegged at K100 ordinary and K200 VIP.
Don Carlos (Euvin Spencer), a legendary reggae artist was born and raised in one of the most deprived regions of Western Kingston, Jamaica, in a district notoriously known as Waterhouse, which incidentally is also a musical spawning ground for many of reggae’s greatest ever talents, such as King Tubby, Black Uhuru, The Jays, Junior Reid and King Jammy.
Don Carlos started his singing career in 1973 as one of the original members of Black Uhuru, alongside other founding members, Garth Dennis who later went on to joining the Wailing Souls, and Derrick Ducky Simpson. As part of the trio, Don sang lead on the highly acclaimed Love Crisis album, for producer Prince Jammy in 1977. This album was later re-released and re-titled as Black Sounds of Freedom.
A year after the trio’s ground-breaking debut, Don Carlos surprisingly decided to leave Black Uhuru in pursuit of a solo career. Within three years as a solo artist, developing his song writing and grooming his distinctive vocal style, in May 1981 Suffering was released.
This strong release took the fraternity by storm, courtesy of a heavy roots and culture flavoured showcase for the Negus Roots label. This album was a massive hit in Africa, selling unprecedented units. Unfortunately, the album was bootlegged, and Don never received proper royalties.
At this time, he worked alongside Goldie, his sidekick, co-writer, and back up vocalist, and together built a staunch following through touring the live circuit and consistently releasing albums such as Harvest Time, Them Never Know A Natty Dread Have Credentials and Seven Days a Week.
Unfortunately, his partner Gold was tragically shot and crippled, putting him out of the music business.
Still, during the 80’s dance hall mania, Don had five top ten hits and is still churning out solid, melodic roots reggae.
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