The world has just recently lost one of its most beloved and versatile performers. Reggae and dance hall superstar singer Lincoln "Sugar" Minott, age 54, died suddenly early this morning, July 11th, 2010.
No official cause of death has been reported at this early stage, however Minott, who was born Lincoln Barrington Minott in Jamaica, continued to live with a heart condition known as Anginia Pectoris.
Minott entered the music mainstream in 1969, quickly becoming well known around the world for his singing, song writing and producing talent. To date, he has recorded over 35 solo albums and almost 60 in all, which is unprecedented....including "Dance hall Showcase", "Herbman Hustling", "Easy Squeeze", and "Hidden Treasures".
In 1974, Minott joined the group 'African Brothers' along with producer 'Rupie Edwards', and came up with perhaps his most famous hit single "Mysterious Nature"...before joining label 'Studio One' to record another blockbuster "No Cup, No Broke".
However, Minott's continuing desire for independence led him away from Studio One, and in 1978 he formed his own label called "Black Roots". Joining producer 'Clement Dodd', Minott sang and played guitar while recording world renowned hits such as "Mr. DC", "Vanity", "Jah Jah Children", and "Rub-A-Dub Sound".
Throughout the next two decades, Minott recorded and performed on tour to world-wide audiences, each time displaying the uncanny ability to write and share new songs and novel rhythms. Each one has been a major contributor to the reggae Rastafari movement and its influence on Jamaican music..
His innovative sounds have also managed to encompass the 'Rough Roots', 'Sweet Lovers', and 'Classic Dance hall' styles that have attracted Minott to top Jamaican producers like 'Mickey Dread', 'George Phang', 'Sly & Robbie', 'Phillip "Fatis" Burrell', 'Channel One', 'Prince Jammy' and 'Donovan Germain'.
Along with his own "Black Roots" label, Minott also formed a "Youth Promotion" label and accompanying organization aimed at helping the careers of young singers with the same ghetto background as himself.
He also created the 'Youthman Promotion" sound system, which is still on the rise today....giving young performers their first public exposure, and a shot at launching new careers.
Here at Streetwise Radio, we will continue to feature Minott's music, as has been the case over the past year, and we sincerely hope his Youth Promotion organization continues to grow and prosper in his absence....already knowing of course, that his music will live on forever!
Sugar Minott was actually due to release yet another...his latest album, just a few days from now. We will keep you updated on that, as well as any further details regarding his sad passing.
Thanks and stay tuned to Streetwise Radio,
Sincerely, PeteCam4
