Crown Prince Speaks: A 1991 Dennis Brown Interview with Totlyn Oliver on RJR Radio Jamaica
In 1991, the airwaves of RJR Radio Jamaica were blessed with the smooth, humble voice of Dennis Emmanuel Brown, the man revered as the Crown Prince of Reggae. The celebrated interview was conducted by veteran Jamaican broadcaster Totlyn Oliver, one of the country’s most respected voices in arts and culture journalism. This rare and intimate conversation offered listeners a chance to experience the man behind the music—a prolific artist whose career helped define the sound and soul of reggae music.
The Setting: A Legend Reflects
At the time of the interview, Dennis Brown was already an icon. With more than two decades in the business and over 60 albums to his name, he had established himself not only as a foundational voice of lovers rock but also as a messenger of social consciousness. Totlyn Oliver, known for her insightful and balanced interviews, created a space where Brown felt at ease to reflect on his life, spirituality, career, and vision for reggae music.
Music as a Mission
In the interview, Brown spoke candidly about his early beginnings—starting at just 11 years old—and how growing up in a culturally rich, musically vibrant Jamaica shaped his sound. He emphasized that music was not just a profession, but a divine calling:
“Music is a spiritual mission, not just an entertainment thing. It’s how we share love, truth, and upliftment,” Dennis told Totlyn.
He credited Studio One and producer Coxsone Dodd with helping to refine his early voice, and also gave thanks to Joe Gibbs and other producers who supported his transition into international acclaim.
Roots, Culture, and Responsibility
When asked about the role of reggae in society, Brown emphasized its importance in educating and awakening the masses, especially the youth. He shared his belief in the power of positive lyrics:
“Reggae must uplift. If it nah uplift the people, it not serving the right purpose,” he said firmly.
He expressed concern about the lyrical direction some younger artists were taking and encouraged them to stay rooted in cultural awareness and spiritual consciousness, drawing on the teachings of Rastafari.
His Views on Rastafari
Totlyn gently inquired about his spiritual journey and his connection to the Rastafari faith. Dennis responded with grace and clarity, calling Rastafari “a way of life” that centers around love, self-respect, and African identity.
“I see Rastafari as truth. It guide I inna this music business and in life. It show I how fi walk clean and talk straight,” he said, his tone deeply reverent.
Collaborations and Legacy
The conversation also touched on Brown’s collaborations with other reggae greats like Gregory Isaacs, Freddie McGregor, and Beres Hammond. He revealed that musical unity was something he valued deeply, stating:
“When reggae artists come together, it send a strong message to the world. We stronger together.”
He also expressed gratitude to the fans, both in Jamaica and abroad, who supported his music through the years. Brown remained humble about his influence, saying he was just grateful to play a role in the ongoing journey of reggae music.
A Crown Prince, A Humble Soul
Throughout the interview, Totlyn Oliver’s respectful tone and Dennis Brown’s heartfelt responses created a timeless moment in Jamaican radio. Her questions invited introspection, and Brown responded not with ego, but with wisdom and warmth.
This 1991 interview stands as an audio time capsule—an intimate dialogue with a musical king whose humility, vision, and message continue to resonate.
Legacy of the Interview
Today, this interview remains one of the most cherished audio records of Dennis Brown’s later years. It captures his essence not just as a performer, but as a deeply spiritual Jamaican man whose purpose was to heal, inspire, and uplift through song.
Dennis Brown passed away in 1999, but through interviews like this, his voice—both in music and in message—continues to echo with timeless power.
For the archives of reggae culture and Jamaican history, this 1991 Totlyn Oliver interview is more than a broadcast—it is a testament to the heart of a king.
interview conducted by Jamaican broadcaster Totlyn Oliver and appeared on her RJR Radio Jamaica show in 1991.
