Sad news today that Desmond Dekker, King of Ska, died of a heart attack at age 64 yesterday. Desmond started out as a welder but soon found he had musical talents and was signed up to Beverley's records in Jamaica by the great producer Leslie Kong. He recorded the huge hits '007' and 'The Israelites' for Kong in the late 1960s. The latter was a massive chart hit in the UK where Desmond moved to in the 70s and pursued a career. Kong, his friend and mentor sadly died of a heart attack in 1971. Desmond's career path was not smooth after his move to the UK. In fact he was declared bankrupt in 1984. Then a TV advert for tape cassettes used 'The Israelites' and his music was brought to the attention of a new generation. He died of a heart attack in Dublin yesterday, he was about to embark upon a European tour. A distinctive, melodic voice, classic tunes, and always the nattiest of dressers, Desmond Dekker we salute you - a true Jamaican Reggae music pioneer. RIP.
Obituary: http://www.radiojamaica.com/news/story.php?category=2&story=24957
Interview: http://www.set-the-tone-67.co.uk/dis-information/dis-info%20des%20dekker.htm
Recommended listening: Rudy Got Soul: the Early Years 1963-1968 Desmond Dekker. On the Trojan label.
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