Biographical Overview & Key Facts

Subject:

Laurel Aitken

Role / Field:

Cuban-Jamaican pioneer of ska music, known as the "Godfather of Ska".

Born:

1927-04-22

Died:

2005-07-17

Century / Era:

1927s Historical Era

Database Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Origins & Early Life

Lorenzo "Laurel" Aitken (22 April 1927 – 17 July 2005) was a Cuban-Jamaican singer and one of the pioneers of ska music. He is often referred to as the "Godfather of Ska". Born in Cuba of mixed Cuban and Jamaican descent, Aitken and his family settled in Jamaica in 1938. After an early career working for the Jamaican Tourist Board singing mento songs for visitors arriving at Kingston Harbour, he became a popular nightclub entertainer.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

His first recordings in the late 1950s were mento tunes such as "Nebuchnezer", "Sweet Chariot" (aka the gospel classic "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot") and "Baba Kill Me Goat". Aitken's 1959 single "Boogie in My Bones"/"Little Sheila" was one of the first records produced by Chris Blackwell and the first Jamaican popular music record to be released in the United Kingdom. Other more Jamaican rhythm and blues orientated singles from this period include "Low Down Dirty Girl" and "More Whisky" both produced by Duke Reid. Aitken moved to Brixton, London, in 1960 and recorded for the Blue Beat label, releasing fifteen singles before returning to Jamaica in 1963. He recorded for Duke Reid, with backing from the Skatalites on tracks such as "Zion" and...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1927 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1927
• April 22 (04-22) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on April 22
• 2005 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 2005
• July 17 (07-17) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on July 17

Frequently Asked Questions about Laurel Aitken