Lee Scratch Perry at London's Jazz Cafe

Lee 'Scratch' Perry
  - Still Coming Up Strong

April 2003 -- Reggae music's star seems to be rising, shining ever brighter. Dancehall reggae is sweeping the US, seducing greater audiences with the power of the drum and bass, in a manner not seen since the glory days of Bob Marley and the Wailers. Amidst this renaissance, it is fitting that one of reggae's most famous and notorious sons, Lee 'Scratch' Perry - The Upsetter, won the 'Best Reggae Album' Grammy Award at the 45th annual Grammy Awards for his 2002 CD Jamaican E.T (Trojan Records). I watched avidly as the diminutive but regal Perry held court before a loving throng of UK followers packed into London's Jazz Café during a series of concerts in March 2003. Yes, he may be showing his age, but I hope that when I reach his years that I'll have the same zest for life that he obviously does. Blue beard and pink hair aglow, Perry is a marvel to many because of his illustrious musical career, fabled eccentricities and colourful exploits.

Lee Scratch Perry at London's Jazz Cafe

My appreciation of Perry developed during my 20's. As a child, my mother introduced me to ska, then rock steady, then lover's rock reggae. I stayed stuck on ska. When I moved to the city many years later, I didn't immediately embrace the popularity of Bob Marley, one of Perry's early success stories (sacrilegious of me to admit this? He he) I simply felt that there was so much more to reggae than was presented in the mainstream media. I didn't learn about Perry until I became a dj some years later. I have always found his rhythms and approach to music inspirational and refreshing. Often compared to jazz icon Sun Ra, funk visionary George Clinton, and others, Perry remains unique. Born Rainford Hugh Perry in St. Mary's, Jamaica, he is not an artist who will be left stuck in a mould not of his own choosing. Whether working with the Wailers or British punk band, The Clash, Perry has left his unforgettable mark on the sound of music worldwide.

This year the celebrated dubster has been invited to be the 11th 'Artistic Director' of the annual Meltdown festival at London's South Bank Centre from 10 to 29 June. Following in the footsteps of David Bowie, John Peel and others, Perry will undoubtedly infuse a strong, fresh vision into the process.

To paraphrase George Clinton, Lee Scratch Perry is definitely someone whose ass has consistently followed because his mind is free.

For detailed info about Lee Scratch Perry, there have been many biographical articles written. Excerpts of one of the best can be found here, http://www.reggaemovement.com/Artists/Leeperry.htm

article and photos | marva jackson lord