When people hear the word “diamonds” they immediately think of the crystal elegance in its highest quality and this group truly exemplifies these attributes. The Mighty Diamonds is a legendary Jamaican harmony trio with a significant impact on reggae music. It’s evident that they played a crucial role in shaping the genre and gained international recognition for their contributions. The group comprised of lead vocalist Donald “Tabby” Shaw along with harmony vocalists Fitzroy “Bunny” Simpson and Lloyd “Judge” Ferguson. As high school friends growing up in the mid 60s, they were originally called “The Limelight”. The name changed to “Mighty Diamonds “came after Shaw’s mother started referring to them as such, thus giving us the group’s name. Their sweet sounds and early influences derived from R&B groups such as, “The Temptations”,” Delfonics”, “Stylistics” and “Impressions”. Their rocksteady style came from mentors like Dennis Brown, Ken Boothe, Alton Ellis and John Holt. Formed in 1969, they scored their first hit with “Shame and Pride” in 1973.  During the 70’s they recorded with several producers like Stranger Cole, Rupie Edwards, “Scratch “Perry and Pat Francis. The success of their 1976 debut album “Right Time” was produced by Joseph Hoo Kim after signing a label deal with Virgin. Several singles from the album became successful hits; “Have Mercy”, “I need a Roof”, “Shame & Pride”, “Them never love poor Marcus” and the title track. The group formed the label “Bad Gong” and released the 1979 “Deeper Roots” album by Virgin, which became a great success.

Collaborating with Virgin Records and the New Orleans project with Allen Toussaint produced the “Ice on Fire” album. The subsequent return to Channel One for albums like “Stand Up to Your Judgment” and “Deeper Roots” adds depth to their musical journey. The 1982 global ganja anthem “Pass the Kutchie” became a major influence on popular culture, as it was covered (Pass the Dutchie) by British reggae group “Musical Youth”. Diamonds were reviving the sentiment of Peter Tosh as they emphasized the liberation of lighting up the herb so others can enjoy smoking it. This further highlights their impact on world issues due to the fact that “Dutchie” is about hunger and food; thus propelling the youngsters to the top of the British charts and into international stardom.  Though “Pass di Kutchie” was banned from airwaves in Jamaica by Prime Minister Seaga, Mighty Diamonds gave an unforgettable performance at the 1982 Reggae Sunsplash as the herb anthem received a couple “rewind and come again”. In the mid 80’s the group showcased their ability to adapt and incorporate different musical sounds into their catalog. The results were prevalent in their work with Gussie Clarke in the digital dancehall era with the output of “The Real Enemy” in 1987 and “Get Ready” the following year. As popularity grew, so did world tours and studio recordings. The group wasn’t slowing down in the 90’s neither. Fan were treated to the soul stirring “Paint it Red” project in 1993 and “Speak the Truth” in 1994. The group continued to release various albums and compilations throughout the next two decades while fulfilling touring duties.

Simpson took ill and suffered a stroke in October of 2015. Unable to continue performing with the group, he was replaced by singer Joseph “Capo Diamond” Beniah . Years later, tragedy struck the music world in March and April of 2022 when two of the lead vocals lost their lives. Shaw, 67, was gunned down in a drive-by shooting in Jamaica on March 30, 2022. Simpson died from stroke couple days later on April 1st, at the age of 71. Many have questioned Tabby’s decision to remain in the crime-plagued inner city. The circumstances surrounding Tabby Shaw’s death is said to be retaliation for his son’s gang related actions. Nonetheless, it’s clear that their contributions to reggae music will be remembered, and they leave behind a lasting legacy. Reggae historian Copeland Forbes and Sly & Robbie travelled with the group and always shed light on the Diamonds’ impact on the local and international music scenes. The recognition and honors they received, such as the Order of Distinction, reflect their enduring significance in Jamaican culture. The Mighty Diamonds’ story is both inspiring and emotional, showcasing the highs and lows of a remarkable musical journey. Their resilience, versatility, and commitment to their craft have left an unforgettable mark on the history of reggae music just like the other greats. In our hearts, diamonds are forever and their legacy will always be in our hearts.