Kenneth George Boothe (OD) is a Jamaican vocalist that is undoubtedly a significant figure in Jamaican music. He is known for his distinctive vocal style and a series of hits that transcended the boundaries of reggae, while appealing to a broad audience.  Ken was born on March 22, 1948 in Denham Town, Kingston and attended Denham Primary Elementary School. During this period he developed an interest in music after receiving encouragement from his eldest sister Hyacinth, who was an established vocalist. Boothe’s early influences were Owen Gray and Stranger Cole, who played a crucial role in shaping his musical journey. The formation of the duo ‘Stranger & Ken’ and their early releases like “Artibella”, “Uno dos tres” and “Hush Baby” set the stage for his solo career. Collaboration with the Wailers on “The Train Is Coming” and the rock-steady classic “Moving Away” both contributed to his growing success in the late 1960s. Armed with a silky voice and dancing abilities, producers like Dodd, Pottinger and Pratt were all eager to bring him in the recording studio. His collaboration with Roy Shirley gave us “Paradise” in 1966. Ken and Sonia Pottinger produced one of his massive hits in 1968 with “Lady with the Starlight”. The shift to Studio One Label, the collaboration with various producers in the early 1970s after Leslie Kong’s passing, and the formation of the group “Conscious Minds” with B. B. Seaton showcased his versatility and adaptability within the reggae scene. Considered a rock-steady giant, he embarked on a successful tour with Alton Ellis. His “Moving Away” classic is still one of the most sampled versions even today. The pinnacle of “Mr. Rock-steady” international success came with the reggae version of David Gates’ “Everything I Own,” released on Trojan Records in 1974 and produced by Lloyd Charmers. The song topped the UK Singles Chart, demonstrating Boothe’s crossover appeal and introducing reggae to a wider audience. With such huge success, the song became one of the biggest selling singles in reggae history.

Despite some challenges, including Trojan Records’ collapse, Boothe continued to record and achieve hits during the late 1970s and 1980s. Now a household name, the smooth crooner charted once again in the UK with “Crying over you”. He continued touring and kept putting out more hits. One such song was the re-release of “When I fall in love” in 1974.  His reunion with Charmers in the late 70’s produced two great albums, “Blood Brothers” and “Who gets your love”.

His collaboration with Shaggy on a re-worked version of “The Train Is Coming” for the film “Money Train” in 1995 added to his enduring legacy. The release of a two-disc set of Boothe’s recordings for Trojan, titled “Crying Over You,” in 2001 further solidified his impact on Jamaican music. Recognition for his contributions came in the form of the Order of Distinction awarded by the Jamaican government in 2003. Ken Boothe’s ability to evolve with the changing musical landscape and maintain relevance over the decades speaks to his talent and enduring appeal. His influence on reggae and his contributions to the genre have left an indelible mark on the history of Jamaican culture for six decades. The legendary singer still straps up his dancing shoes and sings to the delight of his global fan base.