TODAY, the Sunday Observer looks at several Jamaican reggae albums that have created an impact globally which are celebrating milestones.

The artistes range from Spear to Shaggy spanning a period of 40 years.

ROOTS singer Burning Spear had an underground following after recording two albums and fiery anthems like Door Peep and Swell Headed for producer Clement ‘Coxson’ Dodd.

Frustrated with the direction of his career in the early 1970s, he gave up music and returned to his native St Ann.

In a 1999 interview with the Sunday Observer, Spear said he was encouraged by Ocho Rios-based producer Lawrence ‘Jack Ruby’ Lindo to make a comeback.

In early 1975, they collaborated on songs that would comprise Marcus Garvey, one of the outstanding albums in popular music.

The songs were recorded at Randy’s studio in Kingston with the Black Disciples Band which had drummer Leroy ‘Horsemouth’ Wallace, trumpeter Bobby Ellis and bassist Robbie Shakespeare in its ranks.

Released in 1975 by Island Records, Marcus Garvey had hard-hitting songs such as Slavery Days, Jordan River, Tradition and the title track, a salute to the inspirational Pan African leader who was also from St Ann.

Jo-Ann Greene, writing for the respected All Music Guide, said “Marcus Garvey hit Jamaica like a Force 10 gale. It made an instant hero of Spear and the album remains a cornerstone of the entire roots movement.”

Burning Spear developed a massive global following through relentless touring. He no longer hits the road but won two Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album.

— HC