Prince Far I Biography : The Thunderous Voice Of Roots Reggae

Prince Far I, born Michael James Williams in 1945 in Spanish Town, Jamaica, became a legend in roots reggae as a producer and for his incredibly distinctive deejay style on the microphone.

Growing up in Kingston’s Waterhouse area, he was deeply influenced by the local sound system culture. Early on, he joined Sir Mike the Musical Dragon Sound System as a DJ, though he was more of a chanter than a typical DJ.

His unique style earned him the nickname King Cry Cry, referencing his habit of crying when angry.

His first recordings began in the early 1970s with producer Bunny Lee, and one of his early singles, “The Great Booga Wooga,” marked the start of a prolific career. He also worked with Coxsone Dodd, recording tracks like “Natty Farmyard” and “Queen of the Minstrel.”

prince far i - photo from princefari.com

In 1974, he collaborated with Enos McLeod at King Tubby’s on the track “Let Jah Arise,” where McLeod recommended changing his name to Prince Far I – The Voice of Thunder to emphasize the deep, resonant quality of his voice.

Prince Far I’s breakthrough came with the albums “Psalms for I” and “Under Heavy Manners”. The former, released in 1976, featured biblical chants over tough reggae rhythms, setting him apart from other DJs of the time. His deep, authoritative voice conveyed a primal and righteous energy.

“Under Heavy Manners”, released in 1977, solidified his reputation. Produced by Joe Gibbs and featuring the Roots Radics, the album included the hit single “Heavy Manners,” which became an anthem during Jamaica’s turbulent political period.

Today, this album still encapsulates the intensity of the era and the profound influence Prince Far I had on the reggae genre.

Around the mid-1970s, Prince Far I founded his own label in Jamaica, Cry Tuff, to produce his music and promote other like-minded artists.

His partnership with British producer Adrian Sherwood brought his music to the UK audience, furthering his influence in the reggae scene.

Various albums under the “Cry Tuff Dub Encounter” series highlighted Prince Far I’s powerful style and pushed the boundaries of reggae and dub, influencing future musicians.

He successfully collaborated with the Roots Radics band, also known at the time as the Arabs and eventually got another alias – Dub Syndicate – when recording for Sherwood.

Throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, Prince Far I continued to produce influential music. Albums like “Message From the King” and “Long Life” in 1978 showcased his distinctive blend of political commentary and spiritual reflection.

Tragically, Prince Far I’s life was cut short on September 15, 1983, when he was shot and killed in his home during a robbery.

Despite his untimely death, his legacy remains strong. His deep, thunderous voice and uncompromising message continue to resonate in reggae and beyond.