Front: True Pioneer of the Jamaician Music Industry

Inside: Owen Gray was Jamaica's first home-grown singing star, and the first Jamaican singer to achieve recognition and stardom doing something other than calypso music. Born in Kingston in 1939, he showed an affinity for music and a love of singing. Winning his first talent contest at the age of 9, he also distinguished himself in the local church choir, where he sang first tenor. An experienced singer and performer by the age of 19 that he was ready to turn professional. Owen Gray's breakthrough came in 1960 when he recorded "Please Don't Let Me Go" with the Caribs. Released in Jamaica, it hit the top chart spot on the island, while being issued in the UK. Owen also recorded for Melodisc. He toured Europe in 1964, doing mostly soul music. By 1966, he was well known in the UK as a soul singer and also for his Ska, Reggae and Rocksteady sides. Throughout the decade he was one of the most popular recording artists. A True Pioneer of the Jamaican Music Industry


Size of Card: 15cm by 21.2cm

Code: blk008