Slim Smith

Slim Smith (born Keith Smith; 5 October 1948 in Kingston, Jamaica – 9 October 1972) was a Jamaican ska, rocksteady and reggae singer. In their book Reggae: The Rough Guide, Steve Barrow and Peter Dalton described Smith as "the greatest vocalist to emerge in the rocksteady era".

Biography Smith initially came to notice as one of the members of the Victors Youth Band, who were praised at the 1964 Jamaican Festival. Following this he became a founding member and lead vocalist of The Techniques. Their recordings mainly took place for producer Duke Reid and were issued on his Treasure Isle label. After the Techniques disbanded in 1965, he formed The Uniques, who released a handful of singles including the R&B influenced "Do Me Good" released on Ken Lack's Caltone Records label in 1966.

In 1966 Slim Smith commenced recording for Prince Buster and Coxsone Dodd's Studio One label, a major rival to Duke Reid.

Smith died on the night of 9 October 1972, only four days after his 24th birthday. Unable to gain entry to his parents' house, he broke a window, badly lacerating his arm. He bled to death before he could receive treatment. His death stunned Jamaica, where his popularity as one of Jamaica's best vocalists saw numerous reissues of his output.

Album discography Everybody Needs Love (1969, Pama) Just a Dream (1972, Pama/Trojan) Memorial (1973, Trojan) Early Days (1974, Striker Lee) Born To Love (1979, Studio One) Dancehall Connection (1986, Third World) Rain From The Skies (1992, Trojan)

There have also been numerous 'best of' compilations released.