Pioneer of British Lovers Rock Reggae, Vivian Jones, passes at 68
Vivian Jones, a pioneer of British lovers rock reggae, died on October 27 at age 68.
His death was confirmed through postings on social media and the German website, reggaeville.com.
The Trelawny-born singer migrated to the United Kingdom (UK) in 1968 and was part of that country’s vibrant sound system culture during the 1970s. His breakthrough came in 1979 with the song Good Morning, which was followed by Sugar Love and Strong Love in the 1980s.
In a 2014 interview with the Jamaica Observer, he spoke about the resurgence of lovers rock through documentaries and the rise of Bitty McLean, the London-born artiste who earned a following in Jamaica with the hit song, Walk Away From Love.
“It’s getting bigger because people want the real reggae and lovers rock is real reggae,” said Jones.
Jones was raised in Willesden, an area in north-west London known for its large Caribbean community and strong sound system culture. His career started as a deejay and had successful stints with bands including The Spartans, The Mighty Vibes, The Pieces and Ruff Cutt.
During the late 1970s, Jones’ hit singles in the UK included the patriotic Black Gold and Green and Who’s Going to Get Caught (In Babylon Trap).
Along with Maxi Priest, Peter Hunnigale, Janet Kay and Carroll Thompson, he helped put lovers rock on the map. Some of their easy-listening reggae songs, such as Maxi Priest’s In The Springtime, found favour in Jamaica.
Vivian Jones visited Jamaica regularly. While in Kingston 11 years ago, he recorded songs with Bobby Digital and Sly and Robbie.
— Howard Campbell
