Nitty Gritty

Nitty Gritty (Glen Augustus Holness, 1957 – 24 June 1991) was a Jamaican reggae singer known for his energetic style and contributions to the 1980s reggae scene. Born in August Town, Kingston, he was the second of eleven children in a religious family. Holness began his musical journey in the early 1970s, forming the group The Soulites, and recorded his first solo single in the early 1980s for producer Sugar Minott. He also performed with the Zodiac sound system and collaborated with producers such as George Phang before joining King Jammy in 1985. His breakthrough came with the single “Hog inna Minty,” a Jamaican folk song he was the first to record, which became an instant hit. Nitty Gritty continued his success with further singles under Jammy, and released his debut album Turbo Charged in 1986, along with the split album Musical Confrontation with King Kong. He later moved to London and then to New York City, continuing to record, though less frequently. Subsequent albums included General Penitentiary (1987), Nitty Gritty (1988), and Jah in the Family (1989). Tragically, on 24 June 1991, Nitty Gritty was shot dead outside Super Power Record Shop in Brooklyn, New York, at the age of 34. Deejay Super Cat was initially suspected in the killing but was later cleared. Despite his early death, Nitty Gritty remains remembered for his lively performances and influence on reggae music in the 1980s.