Country: Jamaica
Ainsworth Roy Rushton Shirley (18 July 1944 – July 2008), better known as Roy Shirley, was a Jamaican singer whose career spanned the ska, rocksteady, and reggae eras. He is widely credited with recording one of the first rocksteady songs, "Hold Them," and was an original member of Slim Smith's band, The Uniques. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Shirley grew up in Trench Town, sang in his local church choir, and began performing in talent contests. His early success on Vere Johns' talent show brought him to the attention of influential figures such as Edward Seaga and Byron Lee, which helped launch his music career. Shirley’s debut single, "Oh Shirley," was released in 1965 through Leslie Kong, co-arranged with Jimmy Cliff, and became a hit. He went on to form The Leaders and join The Uniques, before recording "Hold Them" in 1966, a song inspired by a Salvation Army band and slowed from ska to create the rocksteady rhythm. The song became a massive hit in Jamaica, and Shirley continued recording for producers Joe Gibbs and Bunny Lee, producing tracks such as "Music Field," "Get on the Ball," and "A Sugar." Known for his ecstatic stage performances, often wearing a silver cape with a high collar, Shirley drew inspiration from American soul singers like Solomon Burke and became one of the most memorable performers of his era. In the 1970s, Shirley relocated to the United Kingdom, touring with U-Roy and Max Romeo and establishing organizations like the All Stars Artistic Federated Union and the British Universal Talent Development Association to support fellow artists and underprivileged youth. He continued performing, releasing his first album The Winner in 1976, and appeared at events such as Reggae Sunsplash in 1982. Shirley passed away at his home in Thamesmead, London, in July 2008 at the…
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