Steely (Wycliffe ‘Steely’ Johnson) and Clevie (Cleveland ‘Clevie’ Browne) were a dominant Jamaican-based production duo who led the direction of Dancehall in the 1980’s and 1990’s contemporary era.
They first gained prominence as members of the Roots Radics band before establishing themselves as a dynamic production duo. Their innovative approach to dancehall music, blending traditional reggae rhythms with electronic elements, earned them widespread acclaim.
Steely and Clevie’s partnership with VP Records solidified their presence in the industry. They produced numerous hits for VP, contributing significantly to the label’s success. Their production style was characterized by intricate drum patterns, catchy melodies, and a keen sense of rhythm, influencing a generation of dancehall artists.
Among their notable albums on VP Records is “Play Studio One Vintage,” a compilation that pays tribute to the legendary Studio One label. This release showcased their ability to reinterpret classic reggae tunes with a modern dancehall twist. Another standout album is “The Final Mission,” which features collaborations with various dancehall and reggae artists, highlighting Steely and Clevie’s versatility as producers.
Steely passed away in 2009, leaving a void in the dancehall community. Their legacy endures through their iconic contributions to the genre and influence over other genres.