Phyllis Dillon’s contribution to Jamaican music, particularly in the rocksteady and reggae genres, left a lasting impact. She was born on December 27, 1944 in the Linstead area of St. Catherine, Jamaica.  Her journey into the music industry began with influences from American singers such as Connie Francis, Patti Page, and Dionne Warwick. The talented songstress was discovery by Duke Reid’s guitarist Lynn Taitt at the Glass Bucket Club in Kingston, marking the beginning of her career. With the guidance of Tommy McCook and the Supersonics band, Dillon’s debut recording for Duke Reid was “Don’t Stay Away” in late 1966. She is often regarded as one of the finest female performances in Jamaican music. In the later part of her career, she covered various American hits; her original compositions “Don’t Stay Away” and “It’s Rocking Time”, showcased her talent and mastery of the rocksteady sound. The latter would set the limelight for Alton Ellis single “Rocksteady”

Her rendition of the 1940’s classic “Perfidia,” recorded in 1967, further solidified Dillon’s reputation. The song, originally popularized by rock group “The Ventures”, became a notable hit for her. Additionally, Dillon collaborated with Alton Ellis (Alton & Phyllis) on duets like “Why Did You Leave Me To Cry” and “Remember that Sunday,” contributing to the richness of the rocksteady era. In 1967, Dillon moved to New York, where she led a dual life—maintaining a family and career in banking while continuing to record for Duke Reid in Jamaica. She took a break in her recording career in 1971 after realizing that she was robbed from royalties. Nonetheless, she released several singles and an album titled “Living in Love.”

A revitalized interest in performing and recording emerged in 1991 when director Michael Bonnet invited Dillon to sing at the Oceanea Hotel in Kingston. Although she initially refused, her decision was later reversed, leading to a renewed phase of her musical career. Dillon toured the UK, Germany, and Japan, experiencing resurgence in popularity. In 1998, Dillon returned to the recording studio with Lynn Taitt, coinciding with a renewed interest in ska music in the United States. Despite facing illness, she remained active in the music scene until her passing. Phyllis Dillon succumbed to cancer on April 15, 2004, in Long Island, New York, at the age of 59. In recognition of her contributions, the Jamaican government posthumously awarded her the Order of Distinction in 2009. Her legacy lives on as she continues to be remembered as one of the key figures of the rocksteady era.