Country: Jamaica
Eek-A-Mouse (born Ripton Joseph Hylton, 19 November 1957) is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall musician, widely recognized as one of the earliest singjays and for pioneering a unique style of scatting in the 1980s. He is also noted for his eccentric stage costumes and charismatic performances. Early Life Born in Kingston, Jamaica. Attended college, where he began his music career. Released early roots reggae singles under his own name, produced by his mathematics tutor, Mr. Dehaney. Stage name Eek-A-Mouse adopted in 1979 after a racehorse, also a nickname used by friends. Career Highlights Early Career (1975–1981) Worked with several sound systems and released singles influenced by Pablo Moses. Recorded for Joe Gibbs in 1979, hitting immediately with "Once a Virgin". Collaborated with Linval Thompson, producing his debut album Bubble Up Yu Hip. Worked with Henry "Junjo" Lawes, producing hits like "Virgin Girl" and "Wa-Do-Dem" recut. Headlined Reggae Sunsplash Festival in 1981, gaining widespread acclaim. 1980s Released albums: Wa Do Dem (1982) Mouse and the Man (1983) Mouseketeer (1984) Hits included: "Wild Like a Tiger", "Do You Remember", "Ganja Smuggling" Explored rock crossover and US market with albums like Assassinator (1985) and The King and I (1985). Late 1980s – 1990s Eek-A-Nomics (1988) established him internationally, featuring the club hit "The Freak". Signed to Island Records in 1989. U-Neek (1991) included a cover of Led Zeppelin’s "D’yer Mak’er" and the single "You’re The One I Need". Appeared in films: New Jack City (1991) and Out for Justice (1991). Later Career Returned to Jamaica to perform in 2015 at the Marcus Garvey Festival after eight years abroad. Collaborated with artists across genres, including: Roger Kellaway, P.O.D., OPM, Ditch, Damian Marley, Bran Van 3000, and German rapper Torch. Personal Life Lived in Sweden with his partner since 2017. Father of eight children: five…
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