Jamaican
Legend Profile: Justin Hinds
Birthdate:
May 7th, 1942
Birthplace: Steertown, Jamaica
Backing Singers: The Dominoes
Main Genres: Reggae, ska and rocksteady
First No. 1 Hit: "Carry Go Bring Home", 1963
You could be forgiven for not having heard of Justin Hinds, but after hearing his unique voice, it is one voice you won't forget. He may not have the profile of other Jamaican artists of his time such as Bob Marley, Desmond Dekker or Prince Buster, but he was equally as talented as a lyricist and singer, this being reflected in his record sales. It is his love for country life and his religion, as well as being disillusioned with the music industry that has kept him out of the public eye. Hinds is unique in that his lyrics were more spiritual than other artists of the time and his voice has a large gospel influence. This uniqueness had a wide appeal and he had hit songs throughout the ska, rocksteady and reggae days of Jamaica and is still well received when he occasionally performs today.
Hinds, with backing vocalists The Dominoes (consisting of Dennis Sinclair and Junior Dixon) first recorded in 1963 for Duke Reid's Treasure Isle label, with the song "Carry Go, Bring Home." While other artists recorded for a number of producers, Hinds stuck with Reid until 1972. From 1964-66 Hinds was Reid's most successful artist, recording 70 singles. Hits included songs such as "Rub Up Push Up", "Save a Bread", "The Higher the Monkey Climbs" and "No Good Rudie" to name just a few. After 1972 he also recorded for Island and Nighthawk after being tracked down by Jack Ruby, but on the Nighthawk album, Jezebel, his name was spelt Hines, meaning he didn't benefit from the royalties. Most of Hinds songs dealt with issues of Jamaica of the time and were highly influenced by his Rastafarian faith. Perhaps this alienated the skinhead market many of his colleagues cornered, which in addition to his preference to live in the country, could explain why Hinds hasn't received the attention he deserves outside of Jamaica. There are many who do know and appreciate his work however, and if you are unfamiliar with Hinds himself, you may know the cover by Dr. Ring Ding and the Senior Allstars of "Save a Bread" with the addition of Ring Ding's excellent chatting. Hinds style was different there's no doubt, but he is responsible for shaping Jamaican music as much as The Skatalites, Marley, Dodd, Buster or any other Jamaican musician.
Glen Smyth.
Home
Introduction
Mark H interview with Amedeo
Melbourne Tour Diary
Justin Hinds Profile
Homage to ska-punk
Links to remaining articles elsewhere
on web