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February 18, 2009
Black Uhuru
The reggae band Black Uhuru was formed by Derrick 'Duckie' Simpson in the 1970's. The band whose name Uhuru is Swahili for freedom was the first group to win a Grammy when the reggae category was introduced in 1985 for the single "What is Life' on the "Anthem'" album.
Over the years the group went through many changes; the first group members were Garth Dennis, Don Carlos and Derrick 'Duckie' Simpson. Then Carlos left and was replaced by Michael Rose, then Dennis left and was replaced by Errol Nelson. During this period the band released its most famous album "Love Crisis" later re-released as "Black Sounds of Freedom". Sandra 'Puma' Jones joined the group in 1979 and with this new line-up; Rose, Simpson and Jones, along with Sly & Robbie as producers and drum and bass players, they release "Sinsemilla", "Red", "Chill Out" and the Grammy winning "Anthem", which were there most popular album.
Black Uhuru became one of the most popular reggae groups in the world touring with super stars such as the Police, the Rolling Stones and the Clash.
In 1985 Rose left to pursue a solo career and Junior Reid joined but only for a short while. Then 'Puma' Jones left in 1987. In 1990 Simpson reunited with the original group members. They recorded several albums and toured extensively before breaking up again amidst a bitter court battle where Dennis and Carlos fought against Simpson over the name and rights of the group. Simpson won the suit and formed yet another alliance with Andrew bees, they produced only one album together "Dynasty" before Bees left to go back to his solo career.
In February 2004, Simpson and Michael Rose reunited using the name "Black Uhuru featuring Michael rose: with Kay Starr as female back up singer they released the single "Dollars" and performed at many concerts including Western Consciousness 2004. The group has made a video and toured Europe in 2006.
Black Uhuru was re-energised in 2008 with 'Duckie' Simpson incharge and Mario Lazare of No Joke Entertainment as manager.
Black Uhuru hopes to do a 25th Anniversary Edition DVD of their 'Live in London' concert.
The group is best known for hits 'Shine Eye Gal", "Guess Who's Coming To Dinner" and "Solidarity".