THE 1990s are considered by many to be the finest era for dancehall music.

It not only had high-riding acts like Shabba Ranks and Mad Cobra, it saw the rise of groups. But despite promise the majority of these groups have not survived.

Innocent Kru which featured Benzly Hype, Dapsie Daps, Copper Kid and Macka Head was one of these popular quartets best known for their 1999 hit Impossible Train. There was also the vocal group ARP of which singer D’Aville was lead. That aggregation too did not survive the test of time. Another casualty of the group syndrome was Scare Dem Crew — a group of deejays comprising Elephant Man, Harry Toddler, Nitty Kutchie and Boom Dandimite.

Each made a mark but after a few years they disbanded for various reasons. It is not unique to Jamaican music.

According to music consultant Copeland Forbes, several factors usually contribute to a band breaking up.

“For one group that I knew, what led to their break-up is the fact that one member could not get a visa or work permit to travel. Therefore, when the group had shows overseas it became a problem so they each started individual careers,” Forbes told Splash.

He added that long-standing differences between members and inflated egos have also resulted in several dancehall/reggae groups splitting. That was the case with The Wailers and Black Uhuru.

Forbes stated that while solid management is critical to a band or group’s longevity, internal relationships are key.

“Sometimes it’s hard to agree on anything as each member sometimes has a camp or entourage who influences them, boosting their egos to believe that they are the best in the group or crew,” he explained.

Forbes has been a booking agent and road manager for almost 40 years, working with acts including Peter Tosh, Third World, Jimmy Cliff, Dennis Brown, TOK, Alaine and Chris Martin. He believes booking solo acts is easier than working with a band or group, especially when it comes to payment.

“The lead singer oftentimes believes that because he is the lead he should receive more pay than the rest of his teammates,” Forbes said.

It must be noted that while bad blood has ended the life of several dancehall/reggae groups, some are still active after 40 years. They include the Mighty Diamonds, Wailing Souls, the Gladiators and Sly and Robbie.