General Echo

Earl Anthony Robinson (8 December 1955 – 22 November 1980), better known as General Echo, a.k.a. Ranking Slackness, was one of the first reggae deejays to move away from 'cultural' lyrics towards 'slackness' (risqué or sexually explicit lyrics).

Biography Born in the Fletcher's Land area of Kingston, Jamaica, General Echo was regarded by some as the most original deejay since Big Youth. This was followed by 12 Inches of Pleasure for producer Henry "Junjo" Lawes.

Echo was shot dead by police in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1980, along with selector Flux (who also worked on his Echo Tone sound system), and Stereo Phonic owner Leon 'Big John' Johns, after they had stopped the car they were travelling in. The whole incident was never satisfactorily explained. Echo's death inspired Clint Eastwood & General Saint to team up and release the "Tribute to General Echo" single.

Discography Albums People Are You Ready (1978) Ballistic (Prince Mohammed & General Echo) Rocking & Swing (1979) Manzie Slackest LP (1979) Techniques (as Ranking Slackness) 12 Inches of Pleasure (1980) Greensleeves Tribute To General Echo (1983) Mandingo Teacher Fe Di Class (2007) Equalizer (expanded edition of Rocking & Swing) Stereo Phonic Live Session (with Madoo)

Contributing artist The Rough Guide to Reggae (1997) World Music Network