One of Jamaica’s most beloved vocalists, Gregory Isaacs was as pertinent in dancehalls as he was in hearts of his followers; his career stretched over 30 years. From the early days of lover’s rock, his talent has transcended into the new modern age of the millennium. Born on July 15, 1951, in Kingston, Jamaica, he was a prominent figure in the reggae music scene. His journey in the music business began through talent shows and was discovered by the legendary Byron Lee.  Along with Winston Sinclair, the two initially recorded a duet called “Another Heartbreak” in 1968. After minimal success, Isaacs joined the vocal trio “The Concords” under the tutelage of Prince Buster and Rupie Edwards “Success” Label. It wasn’t an easy venture as none of the singles gained national attention; thus causing the group to discontinue in 1970.  However, Isaacs persevered and, in 1973, he established his own record store and label, African Museum”, in collaboration with Errol Dunkley.

Isaacs’ breakthrough came with his self-produced hit, “My Only Lover,” marking the start of a prolific career. It was also considered the first “Lovers Rock” song. Over the next few years, he released numerous timeless classics and collaborated with various producers and gaining recognition for both his roots and lover’s rock styles. He recorded with various producers, contributing to a stream of hits throughout the 1970s. Isaacs demonstrated versatility as both a roots singer and a crooning lover throughout the ’70s. Between 1973 and 1977, he released an enormous amount of remarkable materials with timeless classics. Albums like “In Person” (1975), “All I Have Is Love” (1976), and “Extra Classic” (1977) showcased his versatility and musical depth. His first #1 hit came in 1974 (Love Overdue) and it plummeted to the top of the Jamaican charts.

In 1978, Isaacs signed with Virgin’s Frontline label, releasing the album “Cool Ruler.” Although the album didn’t achieve international success, it set the stage for his later triumphs. As his popularity grew, he was given a part in the “Rockers movie and performed “Slave driver”. Gregory was now one of the best male artists in Jamaica and represented well for Reggae Sunsplash. His 1982 album, “Night Nurse,” featuring the hit single of the same name, became a global sensation and his biggest hit despite Isaacs’s legal issues in Jamaica.  He was also featured in the Jamaican documentary “Land of look behind”. Roots Radics were at the helm as Isaacs made his “Mango label debut.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Isaacs continued to release albums and singles, collaborating with various producers like King Jammy’s, Dennis Brown, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Alvin Ranglin and Gussie Clarke. One of his top hits was “Rumors” which was done by Clarke. Sly & Robbie joined the “Cool Ruler” on maintaining a prolific output of tunes. He experimented with different sounds, including dancehall, and remained influential in the reggae scene. The Heartbeat Record Label compiled some of his materials across three CDs for the U.S. market: (My Number One, Love Is Overdue, and The Best Of, Vols. 1-2). More notable works from the “Cool Ruler” include “Red Rose for Gregory” and “I.O.U.” in 1988 and 1989 respectively. In the beginning of 1990, the singer collaborated with producer Winston “Niney” Holness for an excellent “On the Dance Floor” album. Having inked a deal with RAS Records in the U.S., Doctor Dread oversaw the sounds of his frustrated prison life in 1992 memorable “Pardon Me”. “Private Beach Party” came in 1995 and Steely & Clevie took the production duties on 1998 “Hardcore Hits” album.

Isaacs faced personal challenges, including legal troubles and struggles with substance abuse, which impacted his career. Despite this, he remained a significant force in the reggae genre. He teamed with a variety of artists like Trinity, Dennis Brown and Sugar Minott, while continuing to release a plethora of albums into the 2000s. He had several albums that were worthy of Grammy Nominations. “Mr. Cool” in 1996, “Private & Confidential” in 2000, “Brand New Me” in 2009 and” Isaacs Meets Isaacs” in 2010.

Unfortunately, Gregory Isaacs had health issues, including drug addiction and lung cancer. He sadly passed away at his home in London on October 25, 2010, at the age of 59. Isaacs left behind a vast catalog of music, and his contributions to reggae continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide.  A significant repertoire of songs with almost 500 albums (including compilations) released in Jamaica, the U.K., and the U.S. combined. He is remembered for his contributions to reggae, lover’s rock, and dancehall, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene. Besides music, Gregory was a carpenter by trade. Both his wife and son Kevin are keeping his legacy alive with an annual tribute concert entitled “Red Roses for Gregory”. He has cemented his name in the history books as a true reggae legend and the coolest to ever do it.