Elders in Jamaica’s reggae and dancehall circles talk about Osbourne “King Tubby” Ruddock with a reverence his royal moniker deserves. But, 32 years after his death, the current generation of fans are not as familiar with his legend.
On March 27, his former protege Paul Scott seeks to re-introduce King Tubby to fans with the virtual event, “Sound System Club Presents --- Firehouse Crew and Friends Tribute to King Tubby 32 Years Since his Passing”.
The event takes place in Waterhouse, the working-class neighborhood where King Tubby worked his magic. It will be streamed live from the studios of Lloyd “King Jammy” James, the mega-successful engineer/producer whom King Tubby mentored.
“The event also will educate the younger generation across the world of his tremendous achievements and innovations which are still been used in the music industry today. His love and dedication to reggae music has made a significant impact and raised the profile of the music across the world,” said Scott, who was King Tubby’s business manager. “May he also serve as an example to the youths in Waterhouse that with hard work and dedication their dreams can become possible.”
A former engineer at music producer Duke Reid, King Tubby was murdered at his Kingston, Jamaica home in February, 1989. He was 48 years-old.
His vision made him a pioneer of dub. His innovative techniques enhanced songs of roots artists such as Augustus Pablo and Yabby You as well as producers Bunny Lee, Glen Brown and Michael “Mikey Dread” Campbell.
King Tubby moved into music production late in life. He started with Horace Andy’s “Pure Ranking” in 1979 and also produced “Tempo”, a big hit for Anthony Redrose six years later.
Redrose is one of the acts scheduled to perform on ‘Sound System Club Presents’. Others are The Firehouse Crew, who started their recording career at King Tubby’s studio; saxophonist Dean Fraser, singers Courtney Melody and Duane Stephenson, and James who will play selections from his sound system.
Written By Howard Campbell