Country: Jamaica
Clive Bright, better known as Tenor Saw (2 December 1966 – 13 August 1988), was a Jamaican dancehall singjay who became one of the most influential artists of the early digital reggae era. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, he grew up in West Kingston and Duhaney Park, singing in the Seventh-day Adventist Church choir. Bright began his professional career after being given a chance by producer George Phang, recording his first single, "Roll Call," in 1984. He soon worked with Sugar Minott’s Youth Promotion sound system and Black Roots Records, releasing hits such as "Lots of Sign," "Pumpkin Belly," "Run Come Call Me," and "Fever," with his most famous single, "Ring the Alarm," recorded on the iconic "Stalag" riddim for Winston Riley’s Techniques label. Tenor Saw’s career advanced quickly, as he recorded with King Jammy on the groundbreaking "Sleng Teng" riddim and released his debut album Fever in 1986. The album featured digital adaptations of classic rhythms from the 1960s and 1970s, connecting the early rocksteady and reggae eras to the emerging digital dancehall sound. After relocating to Miami and later New York, Tenor Saw continued recording, producing tracks like "Dancehall Feeling," "Bad Boys," and "Victory Train" with Freddie McGregor. His innovative approach to digital rhythms and singjay style helped define the sound of mid-1980s dancehall, making him a key figure in the transition from traditional reggae to modern digital production. Tragically, Tenor Saw’s life and career were cut short at the age of 21 due to injuries sustained in a hit-and-run accident in Houston, Texas, in 1988, though rumors of foul play circulated afterward. His legacy endures through numerous tributes and samples, with artists like Nitty Gritty, King Kong, Super Cat, Big Audio Dynamite, and Sublime referencing his work. Tenor Saw’s songs, particularly "Ring the Alarm" and "Pumpkin Belly," helped…
Gallery
