Black Uhuru is CALI Strong! Reggae Legend Superstars Rock California!

Article published at: Nov 16, 2016 Article author:
Black Uhuru is CALI Strong! Reggae Legend Superstars Rock California!
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Derrick “Duckie” Simpson (a.k.a “Gong Gong Gullie”) is the founder and leader for reggae legends BLACK UHURU. In 1983, they were the first reggae band to win a Grammy award for their Anthem album. Critics have labeled Black Uhuru “The most dynamic and progressive reggae act of the 1970s and early ’80s.” For over 50 years, they have remained one of the most recognized and prolific reggae bands in the world.

Black Uhuru Live On Stage with CALI Strong Gear

Black Uhuru Live on Stage with CALI Strong Gear

Because of Duckie Simpson’s perennial leadership, tireless work ethic, and his unique vision, Black Uhuru remains one of the best reggae bands alive. Duckie’s ability to reinvigorate Black Uhuru’s roster when necessary, from his Waterhouse roots (like he did with singer Andrew Bees and Michael Rose, as well as other current and former band members), has kept the band relevant.

Black Uhuru performs to a jubilant California crowd 2016!

Black Uhuru performs to a jubilant California crowd in 2016!

BLACK UHURU’s long success has made them internationally recognized ambassadors of reggae while earning several achievements in the music industry. With an extensive portfolio of 14 full-length albums, seven instrumental dub albums, and four live albums, Black Uhuru has sold more records than any other individual reggae performer or group other than Bob Marley and the Wailers. The album Red was voted number 23 on Rolling Stone’s list of “100 Greatest Albums of the 1980′s. Besides winning the first reggae Grammy, they have been nominated five more times. In 1994, they were the only reggae group to have won the Diamond Awards of Excellence.

OC Rasta Skate Shoe

OC Rasta Skate Shoe

The birth of Black Uhuru took place in Kingston Jamaica’s Waterhouse district in the early 60′s by Euvin “Don Carlos” Spencer, Rudolph “Garth” Dennis, and Derrick “Duckie” Simpson. Also known as “Firehouse,” it was considered to be one of the toughest neighborhoods in Jamaica’s. Waterhouse was the home to numerous other future reggae icons. The Waterhouse district was where Duckie Simpson grew up to learn to sing from boyhood friends like Winston “Pipe” Matthews and Lloyd “Bread” McDonald of Wailing Souls and Bob Marley. Duckie recorded four tracks with Wailing Souls before starting Black Uhuru. “Uhuru” is the Swahili word for “Freedom.”

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson (Right) & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru represent in California.

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson (Right) & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru represent California.

The original Black Uhuru only recorded a few singles “Folk Songs,” “Time Is On Our Side,” and “Slow Coach” before separating. During a time when the band had a tough time securing a record contract, Euvin “Don Carlos” Spencer left to seek a solo career and Rudolph “Garth” Dennis joined the Wailing Souls.

Dickie has remained the single constant thread throughout Black Uhuru’s history. He reorganized the band with great talents like lead vocalist Michael Rose and Errol “Jay” Wilson. He then built a stellar rhythm section featuring Robbie Shakespeare on bass and Sly Dunbar on drums. Black Uhuru became the reggae ensemble that set the standard for future bands. In 1977, their groundbreaking debut album, Love Crisis, included the iconic reggae anthem “I Love King Selassie.”

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru sport CALI Strong kicks for tonight's performance

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru sport CALI Strong kicks for tonight's performance

Black Uhuru had scheduled their new album for 2016, but Derrick “Duckie” Simpson has stated that production will be delayed until 2017 because the album is expected to feature several collaborations that need more time in the studio.

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru sport CALI Strong kicks for tonight's California performance.

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru sport CALI Strong kicks for tonight's California performance.

https://www.facebook.com/BlackUhuruOfficial/

About the Author: Jim Stroesser

Author: Jim Stroesser - CALI Strong

Jim Stroesser has amassed 38 years of experience in global consumer branding across the sports, fashion, and entertainment industries. Starting his career as a tech rep, he ascended to CEO roles with some of the world's leading brands. As the Co-Founder and CEO of CALI Strong Inc., a direct-to-consumer sports brand based in San Diego, CA, Jim has led the company in producing premium apparel, footwear, equipment, and accessories.

His tenure as Owner/Partner at Converse is particularly noteworthy. Jim was pivotal in reviving the brand from bankruptcy in 2001, elevating its value from $120 million to $285 million, and playing a crucial role in its $305 million sale to Nike in 2003, marking one of the century's significant mergers and acquisitions.

Beyond Converse, Jim has held senior management positions at renowned companies such as Nike, Quiksilver, Oakley, LA Gear, Pony, and Adio. He is also actively involved in several boards of directors positions, including SDSI, led by Chairman Bill Walton, which focuses on mentoring companies and assisting in capital raising efforts.

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