Johnny Osbourne, born Errol Osbourne in 1948, is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall legend whose career spans decades.
Known for his powerful voice and timeless hits, he started singing in church and later studied music at the renowned Alpha School for Boys in Kingston.
Interviewed by Reggae Vibes, he said:
“I was learning trumpet in the Alpha band, you know, because my mother had to board me at Alpha to get me off of the streets. Because she think I might get with bad company, and get in trouble. So she wanted to get me off of the street. That was one of the best things she did.”
Speaking to United Reggae, he shared how he learned the trumpet under the great Lenny Hibbert.
“He had a weird way of teaching. Every mistake he’d hit you with drumstick. If it wasn’t for his drumstick perhaps I wouldn’t be a great singer today!”
Inspired by American R&B, particularly Johnny Mathis, Errol adopted the stage name Johnny.
Osbourne’s career began as lead vocalist of The Wildcats in 1969 when he released his first single, “All I Have Is Love”, at Coxsone Dodd’s Studio One. That same year, he also recorded an album, “Come Back Darling”.
Soon after, he migrated to Canada to join some family members and avoid political unrest in Jamaica. There, he recorded two albums as lead singer of the group Ishan People and performed with Jamaican musicians in Canadian clubs. During this time, he made contact with another migrant, Lloyd “Prince Jammy” James.
In 1979, Johnny returned to Jamaica, marking what he called his “second coming.” Teaming up with Studio One again, he released “Forgive Them”, “Jealousy, Heartache And Pain”, and the classic album “Truths and Rights”. The latter featured hits like the title track and “Jah Promise”.
That same year, Johnny Osbourne scored a hit with “Folly Ranking” for King Jammy. The following year, he released an album of the same name. These successes made him one of the most sought-after vocalists in Jamaica, leading to a prolific period between 1980 and 1982, during which he released albums like “Fally Lover”, “Warrior”, “Innah Disco Style”, and “Never Stop Fighting”.
Osbourne adapted seamlessly to the digital era of the 1980s, working with top producers like Henry “Junjo” Lawes and Bobby Digital. His hit single “Ice Cream Love” cemented his reputation, while his track “Buddy Bye” (based on King Jammy’s Sleng Teng riddim), became a dancehall anthem.
A true “people’s singer,” Johnny Osbourne’s timeless tunes continue to inspire, showcasing his unmatched versatility and passion for reggae and dancehall music.
Sources:
reggaeville.com
allmusic.com
unitedreggae.com
reggae-vibes.com
Photos from Johnny Osbourne’s Facebook Page