The Messenger: Luciano

Luciano was born Jepther McClymont in 1974 in Davey Town. He started singing in church before moving to Kingston. From there, he made series of recordings for a number of producers and indie labels. The break came when he teamed with Burrell in 1993. They started with a handful of singles and then with a series of fine albums. Luciano’s work appeared on labels such as Island, VP, Ras, Shanachie, Jet Star and Burrell’s own Xterminator.

Reggae became less fashionable in the early 1990s. Ironically, Luciano surfaced as Jamaica’s next big thing. It wasn’t because he introduced new styles and trends, but rather he unraveled the classic roots reggae. It reminded the people that saying something still meant something.

However, he wasn’t a revivalist, like bringing back exactly the same past music, but somewhat bringing back the values of reggae into the present. His first full-length recordings with albums such as One Way Ticket (largely a collection of early singles), Where There Is Life, Messenger and Sweep Over My Soul — were all amazing in their honesty and refreshing in their maturity. Luciano’s voice was defined as both warm and authoritative. Producer Philip “Fatis” Burrell made simple yet stimulating arrangements with thrilling backings. These enhanced Luciano’s passionate commitment he gave to his lyrics. Nevertheless, the cultural, Spiritual themes, and lovers rock ballads of Luciano’s music had fallen out of favor with the rise of dancehall. Luciano later regained them back up to this date.

As of 2005, his works remained high-volume. Though some are confusing, he still maintained the quality of his works. His first release on the Kingston labes was as mowing as with others he had done.

He was cited as “The Messenger”. It actually fit him because he came out to be a leader among the next generation reggae artists who stays true to the music’s primary intentions. His conviction and faith made his songs’ message alive.

Credits: Global Rhythm

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