U-Roy

Jamaican reggae and dancehall pioneer

U-Roy, born Ewart Beckford on September 21, 1942, was a pioneering Jamaican reggae and dancehall musician known for his distinctive toasting style, which involved speaking or chanting over a record while the music played. This technique would heavily influence the development of rap and hip-hop in the United States. U-Roy began his career in the 1960s and gained significant popularity in the early 1970s after working with producer Duke Reid. He released several albums throughout his career, with "Natty Rebel" being one of his most celebrated works. The album showcased his unique vocal style and was instrumental in bringing the sound of toasting to an international audience. U-Roy's influence on the genres of reggae and dancehall is profound, and he is often referred to as "The Originator" for his role in shaping the sound of modern Jamaican music. He continued to perform and record music until his passing on February 17, 2021.