Desmond Dekker

[Cuimean]

Ska and rocksteady singer Desmond Dekker died yesterday. He was 61.

"Israelites" totally blew my mind the first time I heard it. The 6/8 intro into the 4/4 rocksteady part is so incredible, as is the way the guitar doubles the bassline. And of course, Dekker's voice, which could be both fragile and tough, brings the whole song to life.

There aren't many voices with that much soul around anymore. He'll be missed.

[justjack]

Rod,

You should upload Israelites as a little memorial...

Best,
Jack.

[FSUGypsyJazz]

I can't believe I just heard about this. Desmond has been one of my all time favorites since I was in High School. His is the most happy (if not on sad subjects) music in the Rocksteady to me. Any time you are at a house party in Tallahassee and it isn't going well no one is having fun or talk isn't happening put on some Dekker and it will get going. Sad day indeed.