junior-murvin

"Police and Thieves" singer Junior Murvin, RIP

Junior Murvin

Not to be confused with Wailers guitarist Junior Marvin, Murvin is the possessor of a fabulous falsetto. (In the late ’60s he did reggae covers of Curtis Mayfield tunes and was known as Junior Soul.) In 1976, after some success writing for others, he teamed with legendary producer Lee Perry and delivered “Police and Thieves,” an instant classic with phenomenal impact in both Jamaica and England (it came as a timely remark on increased racial tensions in both nations). As an added intercultural bonus, the song’s appropriately rebellious lyrics offered The Clash a convenient way to make an early reggae statement on their first LP. – [Trouser Press]

Reggae great Junior Murvin has died at age 67 due to complications from diabetes and hypertension, reports Billboard. His distinctive falsetto lives on through his classic recordings, though. Rest in peace, Junior.

Stream Junior Murvin’s album Police and Thieves below…

Junior Murvin – “Police and Thieves”

Junior Murvin – Police and Thieves (full album)