Country: Jamaica
Beres Hammond OJ (born Hugh Beresford Hammond; 28 August 1955, Annotto Bay, Saint Mary, Jamaica) is a legendary Jamaican reggae singer, celebrated especially for his lovers rock style. While his career began in the 1970s, Hammond achieved his greatest international success in the 1990s. Early Life and Influences Beres Hammond was the ninth of ten children. Growing up, he listened to his father’s collection of American soul and jazz records, including artists such as Sam Cooke and Otis Redding. He was also influenced by Jamaican music, particularly ska and rocksteady, with Alton Ellis as a key inspiration. Career Beginnings Hammond began participating in local talent contests between 1972 and 1973, which led to his first recording of Ellis’ Wanderer. In 1975, he joined the band Zap Pow as lead singer, leading to the hit single The System in 1978. At the same time, he pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album Soul Reggae in 1976. Early solo hits included One Step Ahead (1976) and I’m in Love (1978), produced by Joe Gibbs. He left Zap Pow in 1979 to focus entirely on his solo career. Solo Career and International Success In 1985, Hammond formed his own label, Harmony House Records, releasing the album Make a Song, which produced the Jamaican chart-toppers Groovy Little Thing and What One Dance Can Do. Moving to New York City in 1987 after a home invasion incident, he recorded Have a Nice Weekend and the duet How Can We Ease the Pain with Maxi Priest. Returning briefly to Jamaica, he recorded Putting Up Resistance, produced by Tappa Zukie. In 1990, he signed with Penthouse Records, releasing the international dancehall hit Tempted to Touch, followed by Is This a Sign and Respect to You Baby from the album A Love Affair (1992). During the 1990s,…
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