BY HOWARD CAMPBELL–
Observer senior writer–
Jack Radics —
Singer Jack Radics, whose unique delivery made him a dancehall standout in the 1990’s, is among the headliners for Stars R Us, scheduled for Ranny Williams Entertainment Center on February 23.
Radics, who is based in Atlanta, Georgia, rarely performs in Jamaica. That makes him suited for a show like Stars R Us, said promoter Marvin “Horseman” Pitterson.
“People in Jamaica don’t see him this long time, and that’s something we try to do. Every show I look for an artiste people don’t see in a long time,” he told the Jamaica Observer.
Born Balfour Bailey, Radics kicked off his recording career in 1980 with a cover of Kool and The Gang’s Get Down On It which was produced by Valerie Cowan.
He signed to Island Records in 1985 but continued to record for different producers in Jamaica. In the 1990’s, Jack Radics’ gruff baritone was a staple on reggae radio; his career took off through hit songs for producers Bobby Digital ( Moving Away), Steely and Clevie ( Unchained) and Donovan Germain ( This Time I’ll Be Sweeter).
His biggest commercial success came in 1993 when he teamed with Chaka Demus and Pliers for a cover of the Isley Brothers’ Twist and Shout, which topped the British national chart that year.
Younger brother of audio engineer/producer Karl Pitterson, Pitterson has covered thoroughbred racing as a photographer at Caymanas Park racetrack for over 35 years. In October 2000, he started Stars R Us when there was a rocksteady/roots-reggae renaissance taking place in Jamaica.
Over the years, top artistes from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s have performed on the show, including Alton Ellis, The Melodians, The Silvertones, Johnny Clarke, Yellowman and Half Pint.
Backing band for Stars R Us will be Lloyd Parks and We The People.
You must log in to post a comment.