Released in 2009 by the legendary Trojan Records, The Trojan Rocksteady Collection is an anthology of 40 tracks that beautifully encapsulates the smooth rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and soulful energy of the rocksteady era. This pivotal Jamaican genre emerged in the mid-1960s, bridging the transition from ska to reggae. Each song in this collection is a testament to the artistry of the time, showcasing legends like Alton Ellis, Desmond Dekker, and The Paragons. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of each track, offering insight into the music, its creators, and its significance.
The Legacy of Trojan Records
Founded in London in 1968, Trojan Records became a key player in introducing Jamaican music to the global stage. Named after Duke Reid’s Trojan sound system truck, the label played a crucial role in bridging the cultural gap between Jamaica and the burgeoning Caribbean immigrant population in the UK. By distributing the works of iconic Jamaican producers like Reid, Coxsone Dodd, and Prince Buster, Trojan Records helped popularize ska, rocksteady, and reggae music.
Throughout the 1970s, Trojan Records released a plethora of hits that resonated far beyond Jamaica’s shores, including Desmond Dekker’s “Israelites” and The Maytals’ “Monkey Man.” The label’s Tighten Up compilation series brought Jamaican music into the homes of diverse audiences, cementing Trojan’s place in music history. After a brief decline in the late 1970s, the 1990s saw Trojan experience a resurgence, reissuing classic tracks and compilations like The Trojan Rocksteady Collection, ensuring the preservation of these timeless gems.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
1. Alton Ellis – “Rock Steady”
The genre-defining track by Alton Ellis, often called the “Godfather of Rocksteady,” captures the smooth, laid-back rhythm that characterizes rocksteady. Ellis’s velvety voice and soulful delivery make this an essential anthem.
2. Desmond Dekker & The Aces – “Beautiful & Dangerous”
Desmond Dekker tells a cautionary tale of love and its risks in this upbeat track. The Aces’ harmonious backing vocals perfectly complement Dekker’s expressive performance.
3. The Paragons – “On The Beach”
Led by the legendary John Holt, this breezy tune transports listeners to Jamaica’s sunny beaches. Its carefree melody and soothing vocals make it a rocksteady classic.
4. The Melodians – “Little Nut Tree”
With sweet harmonies and playful lyrics, The Melodians create a charming narrative about love and devotion. The simplicity of the arrangement highlights the vocal interplay.
5. The Versatiles – “Teardrops Falling”
A melancholy tune about heartbreak, this track captures the bittersweet essence of rocksteady through its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics.
6. Derrick Harriott – “The Loser”
A deeply emotional ballad, Harriott’s vocal performance shines as he sings about love lost, a recurring theme in rocksteady.
7. The Federals – “Shocking Love”
This lively tune is an ode to the electrifying power of love. Its catchy beat and vibrant energy make it an instant favorite.
8. The Maytals – “Just Tell Me”
Toots Hibbert’s energetic and soulful vocals bring this track to life, blending the spirit of ska with the slower rhythms of rocksteady.
9. The Ethiopians – “Come On Now”
Known for their socially conscious music, The Ethiopians lighten the mood here with a romantic tune, showcasing their versatility.
10. Pat Kelly – “Somebody’s Baby”
Pat Kelly’s silky falsetto takes center stage in this tender love song, a standout track in the genre’s romantic repertoire.
11. Ike Bennett & The Crystalites – “Illya Kuryakin”
An instrumental tribute to a fictional TV spy, this track showcases inventive arrangements and dynamic musicianship.
12. The Natives – “You You”
This playful tune is lighthearted and fun, featuring cheerful lyrics and a bouncy rhythm.
13. The Gaylads – “It’s Hard to Confess”
A song about unspoken emotions, the Gaylads deliver a soulful and introspective performance that resonates deeply.
14. Derrick Harriott – “Do I Worry?”
Another hit from Harriott, this introspective track reflects on insecurities in love with a heartfelt delivery.
15. Derrick Morgan – “Conquering Ruler”
An anthem of triumph and resilience, Morgan’s commanding voice and confident lyrics make this a powerful standout.
16. The Uniques – “My Conversation (Stereo)”
With its smooth groove and philosophical lyrics, this track is a meditative classic that exemplifies the laid-back nature of rocksteady.
17. Lynn Taitt & The Jets – “To Sir With Love”
This instrumental cover of a famous ballad demonstrates Lynn Taitt’s exceptional guitar skills and emotional depth.
18. Errol Dunkley – “You’re Gonna Need Me”
Dunkley’s soulful vocals deliver a poignant message about the value of love and relationships.
19. Desmond Dekker & The Aces – “Mother’s Young Gal”
This playful tune showcases Dekker’s storytelling prowess, set against a bright and lively beat.
20. The Melodians – “Swing & Dine”
A heartfelt anthem of gratitude, this track’s harmonious vocals and reflective lyrics make it timeless.
21. Derrick Harriott – “Walk the Streets (You Might as Well Forget Him)”
A tale of heartbreak, Harriott’s smooth voice delivers this bittersweet narrative with grace.
22. Alton Ellis – “All My Tears (Come Rolling)”
Ellis’s soulful lament about unrequited love is a poignant highlight of the collection.
23. The Gaylads – “ABC Rock Steady”
A catchy and upbeat tune, this track combines playful lyrics with an infectious groove.
24. Lester Sterling – “Super Special”
An instrumental piece that showcases Sterling’s saxophone mastery and joyful energy.
25. Johnny & The Attractions – “Young Wings Can Fly”
A hopeful and uplifting song that captures the optimism and innocence of youth.
26. The Versatiles – “Trust the Book”
This gospel-infused track delivers a powerful message of faith and perseverance.
27. Ken Boothe – “Can’t See You (Edit)”
Boothe’s velvety voice and heartfelt delivery make this ballad of longing unforgettable.
28. Derrick Harriott – “Born to Love You”
A tender declaration of love, Harriott’s warm vocals make this track a standout.
29. The Uniques – “People Rocksteady”
A celebratory anthem paying homage to the genre, this track is uplifting and inspiring.
30. Delroy Wilson – “Once Upon a Time”
Wilson’s reflective ballad pairs soulful lyrics with a smooth melody.
31. The Jamaicans – “Ba Ba Boom”
An iconic celebration song, this track epitomizes the joyous spirit of rocksteady.
32. The Natives – “Live It Up”
A vibrant and energetic tune encouraging listeners to embrace life’s joys.
33. Derrick Harriott – “Solomon”
Harriott’s vocals narrate a tale of wisdom and love, set against a rich melody.
34. The Ethiopians – “Engine 54”
This signature track uses a “train engine” rhythm to reflect working-class resilience.
35. Derrick Morgan – “I Want to Go Home”
A nostalgic ballad of longing for home, Morgan’s emotional delivery is captivating.
36. The Melodians – “I Will Get Along Without You”
A song of independence, this track’s harmonies and lyrics are empowering.
37. Justin Hinds & The Dominoes – “Save a Bread”
A socially conscious anthem encouraging unity and resourcefulness.
38. The Versatiles – “The Time Has Come”
A stirring call for change and hope, this track is dynamic and heartfelt.
39. Tommy McCook – “The Shadow of Your Smile”
A jazzy instrumental that highlights McCook’s saxophone skills and sophistication.
40. The Gaylads – “Over the Rainbow’s End”
A hopeful, uplifting conclusion, leaving listeners with a sense of fulfillment.
Conclusion
The Trojan Rocksteady Collection is an essential compilation, preserving the beauty and depth of a genre that continues to influence music worldwide. With each track, the album captures the magic of the rocksteady era, offering a timeless listening experience that both honors the past and inspires the future.
