Roots Radics

The Roots Radics Band is a highly influential Jamaican reggae group formed in 1978 by bassist Errol “Flabba” Holt, guitarist Eric “Bingy Bunny” Lamont, and drummer Lincoln “Style” Scott. Emerging from earlier collaborations in The Morwells and Prince Far I’s backing band The Arabs, the group expanded to include top-tier musicians such as Noel “Sowell” Bailey, Dwight Pinkney, Steve Golding, Wycliffe “Steelie” Johnson, Gladstone “Gladdy” Anderson, and saxophonist Headley Bennett. Together, they became one of the most respected studio and live bands in Jamaica, shaping and dominating the roots and dancehall sound of the early 1980s. The Roots Radics were especially prominent as a studio band, working with producer Henry “Junjo” Lawes and initially recording riddims for Barrington Levy in 1979 under the name Channel One Stars. Their tight, minimalist style became foundational to many classic recordings, backing major artists such as Gregory Isaacs, Eek-A-Mouse, Bunny Wailer, Michael Prophet, Prince Far I, and Israel Vibration. Notably, they played on Gregory Isaacs’ landmark album Night Nurse (1982) and appeared extensively on Eek-A-Mouse’s early 1980s albums, helping define the era’s sound both in the studio and on international tours. Beyond their peak years, the band’s legacy continued through its members’ influence and later recognition. Wycliffe “Steelie” Johnson went on to form the legendary production duo Steely & Clevie, while the group also contributed to projects with Adrian Sherwood’s Singers and Players. The band suffered major losses over the years, including the deaths of Lamont (1993), Bailey (2014), and Scott (2014). Despite this, their impact endured, culminating in their first Grammy nomination in 2019 for The Final Battle: Sly & Robbie vs Roots Radics, reaffirming their lasting importance in reggae history.