Dean Fraser
Dean Ivanhoe Fraser, known as Dean Fraser,
Our story
Is one of Jamaica’s most acclaimed saxophonists and a respected figure
in reggae music. Born on 4 August 1957, Fraser has had a profound influence on reggae since the mid-1970s, contributing his versatile saxophone skills to hundreds of recordings and collaborating with some of the most celebrated names in the genre. His soulful, jazz-infused playing style brought a new dimension to reggae music, enhancing its richness and expanding its musical scope. Fraser’s exceptional talent and dedication to reggae earned him the prestigious Musgrave Medal from the Jamaican government in 1993, a recognition of his outstanding contributions to Jamaican music and culture.
Early Beginnings
One of Fraser’s notable collaborations was the track "Girlfriends",
released in partnership with Dennis Star International and Brixton Promotion. This track was released on a 12-inch, 45 RPM vinyl under catalog number BP14. The collaboration with Dennis Star and Brixton Promotion, facilitated by Brixton-based producer Howard Hill, added a UK dimension to Fraser’s already expansive repertoire. Recorded at a time when reggae’s influence in London was thriving, *”Girlfriends”* showcased Fraser’s smooth, expressive saxophone melodies, bringing a soulful touch to the rhythmic beats of reggae. The track struck a balance between lovers rock and roots reggae, embodying the deep, emotional resonance that Fraser is known for. Dean Fraser’s work with Brixton Promotion reflects the fusion of Jamaican and UK reggae influences, a blend that was central to the reggae movement in London during the 1980s and 1990s. Brixton, a hub of Caribbean culture, became a vital center for reggae production and sound system culture, where Fraser’s music found an eager audience. His collaborations with Dennis Star International and Brixton Promotion enabled Fraser to connect with UK-based fans and sound systems, further spreading his musical impact. Over the years, Fraser has collaborated with icons like Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, and Beres Hammond, becoming known as the go-to saxophonist in reggae. His extensive catalog includes iconic songs and albums, contributing to both studio recordings and live performances. His work, characterized by a warm tone and effortless fluidity, has enhanced the depth and emotion of countless reggae songs, from classic roots to contemporary dancehall. Today, Dean Fraser continues to be celebrated as a pioneer in reggae music, with a career spanning several decades. His contributions have not only defined him as a master saxophonist but also as a visionary who brought a jazz sensibility to reggae, helping to shape the genre’s sound. Through collaborations like *”Girlfriends”* with Brixton Promotion, Fraser’s legacy remains deeply intertwined with the global reach and evolution of reggae music.
Reggae DJ & Singer
Errol Scorpion, also known simply as Scorpion,
is a reggae artist renowned for his bold lyrical approach and for addressing powerful social and political themes in his music. Known for his distinctive voice and ability to confront pressing issues, Scorpion carved out a place for himself in reggae by blending conscious lyrics with infectious rhythms, embodying reggae’s tradition of activism and social commentary. One of Scorpion’s most impactful tracks, *”Who Killed Peter Tosh,”* is a tribute and a provocative exploration of the mysterious death of reggae legend Peter Tosh. The song was produced as a collaboration between Dennis Star International and Brixton Promotion, released on a 12-inch, 45 RPM vinyl under catalog number BP11. The track reflects Scorpion’s fearless approach to music, taking on sensitive topics that were often left unspoken. In *”Who Killed Peter Tosh,”* he pays homage to Tosh’s legacy as a revolutionary artist while questioning the circumstances around his untimely death in 1987, a topic that resonated with fans of reggae who admired Tosh’s bold stance on social justice and human rights.
B.P. Studio
Recorded with the help of Brixton-based producer Howard Hill,
”Who Killed Peter Tosh” was created at a time when reggae music in the UK was thriving, with Brixton as a central hub for Caribbean music and culture. The track found an audience in London’s sound system scene, where fans of roots reggae and socially aware music were eager to hear songs that addressed real-world issues. Brixton Promotion’s commitment to authentic reggae production allowed Scorpion’s message to come through powerfully, amplifying the impact of the track.
Scorpion’s collaborations with Brixton Promotion and Dennis Star positioned him as a voice of consciousness within the reggae community. He followed in the footsteps of reggae icons who used music to raise awareness and speak truth to power, and *”Who Killed Peter Tosh”* stands as a testament to his dedication to the genre’s activist roots. Through this track, Scorpion contributed to the ongoing dialogue around Peter Tosh’s legacy and the unresolved questions surrounding his death, a topic that continues to be significant within reggae culture.
Though Errol Scorpion may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, his commitment to addressing important social themes through reggae has left a lasting impact. His work, particularly with Brixton Promotion, is celebrated by reggae enthusiasts who appreciate music that not only entertains but also educates and provokes thought.
Explore
Elevate your wardrobe, embrace timeless style!
Explore our collections today and experience the joy of fashion. Shop now for the epitome of chic sophistication!
