LEROY SIBBLES - THE CROWNING CELEBRATING KING OF THE REGGAE BASSLINE

Leroy Sibbles, renowned for his role as the lead singer and chief songwriter of The Heptones, is finally receiving the recognition he deserves for his exceptional talent as a bass guitarist. Saturday August 31st 2024, fans and music enthusiasts will gather at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre for an event titled “Leroy Sibbles: The Crowning — Celebrating The King of the Reggae Bassline.” This celebration marks Sibbles' remarkable 60 years in the music industry, where he has established himself as one of reggae's most influential bassists.

The Legacy of Leroy Sibbles

Sibbles has long been a prominent figure in the reggae genre, known for his contributions to The Heptones’ biggest hits like “Equal Rights,” “Sweet Talking,” and “I Shall Be Released.” Despite his vocal success, Sibbles believes that his skills on the bass guitar have often been overlooked. In an interview, he expressed his pride in his work, stating, "There’s a lotta bass man out there who play ska, rocksteady and reggae. Mi gi dem props, but mi have di most popular bass lines."

Influential Collaborations and Hits

Beyond his work with The Heptones, Sibbles has lent his bass expertise to a variety of artists and genres. His notable bass lines can be heard in songs such as “Baby Why” by The Cables and “Satta Masa Gana” by The Abyssinians. Furthermore, he contributed to the instrumental “Full Up,” which has become integral to hits like “Pass The Kutchie” by The Mighty Diamonds and “Pass The Dutchie” by Musical Youth, the latter of which reached the top of the UK charts in 1982.

Sibbles’ versatility extends beyond reggae; he played on Bruce Cockburn’s 1979 top 10 hit, “Wondering Where The Lion’s Are,” showcasing his ability to cross genres and collaborate with diverse artists.

The Birth of a Bass Legend

Sibbles' journey began in Trench Town, where he joined Earl Morgan and Barry Llewellyn to form The Heptones in 1964. Their collaboration at Studio One, alongside legendary producer Harry “Harry J” Johnson, resulted in a decade of chart-topping reggae hits. It was during this time that Sibbles was encouraged to explore the bass guitar by famed keyboardist Jackie Mittoo, leading to his debut performance on the instrument in 1968.

A Celebration of Music and Joy

As Sibbles celebrates his diamond anniversary in the music industry, he remains committed to his craft. The event will feature performances from artists such as Etana, Duane Stephenson, and Singing Melody, all honoring Sibbles’ significant contributions to reggae music. Reflecting on his journey, he states, “Music is all I do; it’s pleasurable and soothes di soul. It’s a joy dat bring people joy.”

Leroy Sibbles stands as a testament to the power of music and the importance of recognizing the artists behind the scenes. As he receives the accolades he rightfully deserves, fans can look forward to an evening celebrating not just his legacy but the rich history of reggae itself. Join the celebration and experience the magic of Leroy Sibbles, the King of the Reggae Bassline.