Jamaica’s First International Star Who Popularized Ska & One Of The Most Elusive Performers in Pop History : Millie Small

Millicent Dolly May Small born in Clarendon, Jamaica, was a talented Jamaican singer who made a significant impact on the music industry. She is best known for her 1964 hit "My Boy Lollipop," which became a global sensation, reaching number two in both the UK and US charts. Millicent, also known as Millie, was the Caribbean's first international recording star and the most successful female performer of her time. Her incredible journey, from winning talent contests to becoming an international star, is a testament to her immense talent and dedication.

Early Life and Career Beginnings:
Millicent Small was born into a large family of 13 siblings, with whom she grew up in Clarendon, Jamaica. At the age of twelve, she showcased her singing talent by winning the Vere Johns Opportunity Hour talent contest. Recognizing her potential, Millicent moved to Kingston to pursue a career as a singer. She auditioned for renowned record producer Coxsone Dodd, who was impressed by her voice and paired her with singer Owen Gray. The duo made several successful records together, including the local hit "Sugar Plum."

Rise to Stardom:
Millicent's career took a significant turn when she began recording with Samuel Augustus "Roy" Panton. Under the guidance of producer Roy Robinson, the duo of Roy & Millie enjoyed a string of local hits, including "We'll Meet." They also collaborated with Coxsone Dodd and producer Lindon Pottinger, producing popular tracks like "Marie." Millicent's talent caught the attention of Anglo-Jamaican entrepreneur Chris Blackwell, who recognized her international potential and became her manager.

International Success with "My Boy Lollipop":
In 1963, Millicent traveled to London with Chris Blackwell, where she received intensive training in dancing and diction. Her first recording in London, "Don't You Know," didn't make a significant impact. However, with the help of guitarist and arranger Ernest Ranglin, Millicent recorded a ska-style version of "My Boy Lollipop," originally released by Barbie Gaye in 1956. The song became an instant success, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart, the US Billboard Hot 100, and topping the charts in Australia. It sold over seven million copies worldwide, making Millicent an international star at the young age of 17.

Impact on British Pop History:
"My Boy Lollipop" not only marked Millicent's breakthrough but also played a pivotal role in British pop history. It became the first major hit for Island Records, and Millicent was the first artist to have a hit recorded in the bluebeat style, a precursor to reggae. The song introduced ska to a global audience and earned Millicent the nickname "The Blue Beat Girl" in the US. She appeared on popular British TV shows like Top of the Pops, solidifying her status as a pop icon.

International Tours and Continued Success:
Following the success of "My Boy Lollipop," Millicent embarked on a world tour, captivating audiences in countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, the US, Brazil, and Argentina. She continued to record and perform, collaborating with Jackie Edwards on duets and releasing albums like "Millie Sings Fats Domino." Although her popularity in Britain declined over time, Millicent remained a beloved figure in Australia and Africa.

Later Years and Legacy:
After a hiatus from the music industry, Millicent returned to recording in the late 1960s and early 1970s. She embraced reggae, releasing singles like "My Love and I" and "Enoch Power." Despite facing challenges, including a lack of royalties for "My Boy Lollipop," Millicent's impact on the music industry remained undeniable. In 2011, she was honored with the Commander in the Order of Distinction for her contribution to the Jamaican music industry.

Millicent Dolly May Small's life and career were marked by incredible achievements and international success. Her talent, coupled with her trailblazing role in popularizing ska, forever solidified her place in music history. Millicent's legacy continues to inspire aspiring musicians and fans around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the Jamaican music industry. Sadly she passes away on May 6 2020. 

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