Jacob Miller, born on Rousseau Road in Kingston, Jamaica, was a charismatic reggae singer whose career spanned from the late 1960s to the early 1980s. His first recording opportunity came in 1968 with Coxsone Dodd, but it was his collaboration with Augustus Pablo that brought early success, particularly with the re-recording of “Message” into “Keep on Knocking.” Miller recorded several classics with Pablo, such as “Baby I Love You So” and “False Rasta,” establishing his reputation in the reggae genre.
In 1974, he joined the reggae group Inner Circle, significantly impacting their sound with hits like “Tenement Yard,” blending his solo career with his work with the band. Throughout 1975, Miller released several solo classics including “Forward Jah Jah Children” and “I Am a Natty,” while also working on Inner Circle’s album Blame It On the Sun. Miller’s prominence continued to grow with features in the film Rockers and his instrumental role in the One Love Peace Concert in 1978, showcasing his commitment to peace and unity in Jamaica.
His solo albums Killer Miller and Natty Christmas were released in 1978, featuring a range of reggae classics and festive songs. At the peak of his career, Miller tragically died in a car accident on Hope Road in 1980, a profound loss to the Jamaican music scene and his fans worldwide.
In 2008, VP Records paid tribute to Miller with the album Jacob Miller & Friends — Jacob Miller Lives On, which was preceded by Jacob Miller — Natty Christmas in 2007.