Mikey Dread

Mikey Dread has become an important figure in Dub and Dancehall -- and in Reggae in general, for that matter -- although his name remains largely unknown to those who aren't fans of the genre. Even if you haven't heard of Dread, it's likely that you've heard artists he's worked with (Izzy Stradlin, UB40, and the Clash), or singles and LPs that he's produced ("Red, Red Wine" and the Clash's "Bankrobber" and Sandinista). Much of his success has come vicariously through the imprint he's left on the work of other artists. It's unfortunate that a vocalist with his talent remains cloaked in anonymity beyond Reggae's boundaries, especially considering that his unique, adenoidal voice is a soulful break from the bark-and-growl trend pervading contemporary Dancehall.