The Gladiators
Formed in Jamaica in the mid-60s, the group originally comprised Albert Griffiths (b. 1 January 1947, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, West Indies; vocals/guitar), Clinton Fearon (b. 16 January 1951, St. Andrew, Jamaica, West Indies; vocals/guitar) and David Webber (b. c.1948, Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies; vocals). Griffiths adopted the group's name after a workmate suggested it. Their earliest recordings include "The Train Is Coming Back" (1968) for Leeward Robinson, "You Were To Be" (c.1969) for Duke Reid and "Hello Carol" (1969) for Coxsone Dodd. During 1970, Webber was replaced by Dallimore Sutherland (bass/vocals). The group's focus became more roots-orientated, and good examples of this approach include two fine songs they recorded for Lloyd Daley in 1971, "Rock A Man Soul" and "Freedom Train". Throughout the early 70s they recorded a stunning body of work for Dodd, including "A Prayer To Thee", "Bongo Red", "Jah Jah Go Before Us", "Roots Natty" and "Serious Thing". In 1976, they signed to Virgin Records. Their first album, Trenchtown Mix-up, was a strong collection of new songs and remakes, and this was followed by Proverbial Reggae and Naturality. Between 1977 and 1978, further singles appeared from Studio One, including "Mr Baldwin" and "Peace". In 1979, Dodd finally released a collection of their singles as Presenting The Gladiators. Meanwhile, their Virgin contract concluded with Sweet So Till and The Gladiators, the latter being a misjudged crossover attempt. Further albums have all been consistent, although failing to reach the heights of their earlier recordings.
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- Time Is On My Side
- Roots Natty
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