Dennis Brown's Earthstrong

Today is the earthstrong of the late and great singer Dennis Brown. Many people outside of certain circles do not know of the "Crown Prince of Reggae", the rightful heir to the legacy of Bob Marley, or how his voice and style inspired many singers after him. I for one have been moved by his music since the moment it hit my ear. On days when I just couldn't find a way to articulate my feelings, the Rasta singer evoked the emotions back toward me, truly a blessing. Dennis Brown was a dedicated Rasta and member of the Twelve Tribes of Israel organization of which I-man am also a part of. His singing career began at the age of 12 when he recorded a song "No Man Is an Island" for Coxsone Dodd at Studio One. Dennis Brown's lyrics were potent, he was a great songwriter, and his delivery was always filled with emotion... equally able to evoke lovers' tunes or inspire ones with cultural themes. By the time Dennis Brown was 22 years old he had written and recorded some of the most timeless reggae songs ever heard. He continued to be a prolific artist throughout the 1980's and 1990's, and along with his contemporary and friend Gregory Isaacs, was one of the reggae's most beloved singers. Many of today's cultural and lovers singers can name Dennis Brown as an inspiration, and often times the style is especially apparent in artists like Luciano. Dennis Brown died suddenly on July 1, 1999 at the young age of 42. The cause of his death has always been kept somewhat of a mystery but it was likely related to pneumonia and respiratory failure. Give thanks to JAH for Dennis Brown's life and his contribution to music with messages and lyrics from the heart. Big up Dennis Brown!

JAHsh

Dennis Brown
February 1, 1957 - July 1, 1999

"Love and hate can never be friends
Oh no, oh no

Here I come with love and not hatred
surely goodness and mercy
shall follow I all the days of I life
envy no one no wish to be with no evil man
for there'll come the day
when you'll be whipped by the father's hand"

- Dennis Brown "Here I Come"