Winston Riley, a pivotal figure in the development of reggae music, was a Jamaican record producer, singer, and songwriter born on May 14, 1943, in Kingston, Jamaica. Riley made significant contributions to reggae in large part because of his ear to hear talent, and his catalog of classic productions.
Riley’s prominence grew during the 1960s and 1970s when he founded the Techniques, a vocal group that achieved success with hits like “You Don’t Care” and “Queen Majesty.” As a solo artist, he also produced noteworthy tracks, displaying his versatile talents in reggae and rocksteady.
In the 1980s, Riley established the renowned Techniques record label, releasing seminal works that contributed to the reggae sound’s international recognition. One of his notable albums, “Techniques In Dub,” showcased his prowess in dub music, a genre of reggae characterized by remixing and manipulating existing recordings.
Winston Riley released several albums with VP Records including “Double Twin Spin” and “The Techniques at Channel One – 7th Extension,” which featured timeless tracks.
Winston Riley’s legacy endures through his influential contributions to reggae music. His work, remains a testament to his enduring influence on the genre’s development and the global appreciation of Jamaican music.