Derrick Harriott, Jamaican reggae and rocksteady pioneer, dies at 87

Derrick Harriott, an influential Jamaican singer and record producer who helped shape the evolution of ska, rocksteady, and reggae, has died at the age of 87. He passed away at his home in Kingston following a period of illness.

Harriott began his musical career in the late 1950s, initially gaining recognition after winning the Vere Johns Opportunity Hour talent contest in 1957. He co-founded the vocal group The Jiving Juniors in 1958 before launching a successful solo career in the 1960s. His notable hits include ‘The Loser’, ‘I Care’, ‘What Can I Do’, and ‘I’m Only Human’.

As a producer, Harriott established the Crystal record label and worked with prominent artists such as Dennis Brown, Big Youth, The Ethiopians, and DJ Scotty. His production work contributed significantly to the development of early reggae and dub. In recognition of his impact on Jamaican music, he was awarded the Order of Distinction in 2009 and the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019.