The Mighty Diamonds
Press Release
Immediate:
The Drum in association with Classical & Vision Promotions presents
THE MIGHTY DIAMONDS
The Mighty Diamonds are one of the most internationally popular reggae groups to have emerged from the ‘70s roots era. This vocal trio comprising lead singer Donald ‘Tabby’ Shaw, harmony singer Fitzroy ‘Bunny’ Simpson plus founder and harmony singer Lloyd ‘Judge’ Ferguson was formed in 1969. They were based in the Trenchtown area of Jamaica and for the past 40 years have been entertaining and educating the world with their sweet harmonies and conscious lyrics. More accessible than many other roots outfits, The Mighty Diamonds boast soulful, gorgeously pure harmonies and tight, catchy song-writing. They are devout Rastafarians but balance their spiritual and political messages with sweet romantic material giving them universal appeal. Regardless of whether they are singing love songs or protest anthems, The Mighty Diamonds bring an emotional commitment to their material.
In 1973 The Mighty Diamonds came into prominence with their single ‘Shame and Pride’ and in 1975 they were propelled into the reggae limelight with two major hits in quick succession ‘Hey Girl’ and ‘Country Living’. Their debut album ‘The Right Time’ followed in 1976 and is still considered to be one of roots reggae all-time classics, tackling a multitude of spiritual and political issues with powerful, yet graceful music. This album spawned further hits including ‘I Need A Roof’, ‘Have Mercy’ and ‘Africa’ .
In the early ‘80s, the trio started working with producer Gussie Clarke re-working old Studio One rhythm tracks for their ‘Changes’ album which was released in 1981. One of the tracks on that album ‘Pass the Kutchie’ was an instant and major hit in Jamaica. In 1982 the track was covered by Birmingham based Musical Youth – who had a number one-hit with ‘Pass The Dutchie’ (they substituted kutchie slang for marijuana, with dutchie - a type of cooking pot). The single sold over 4 million copies and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
The Mighty Diamonds have toured the world extensively and have a strong following in Europe, the United States and Japan. Come and see The Mighty Diamonds live at The Drum on Sat 30 May, doors open at 9pm. Tickets are £18.50, more on the door.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Katie Reid, Marketing Manager on 0121 333 2421 or e-mail: k.reid@the-drum.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
Venue: The Drum 144 Potters Lane Aston Birmingham B6 4UU
Date & Time: Saturday, 30 May, doors open at 9pm
Ticket Prices: £18.50 in advance, more on the door
Box Office: Call 0121 333 2444 or to book online visit
www.the-drum.org.uk
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MySpace: thedrumb6
