Artist page

Junior Byles, born Kenneth Byles on July 17, 1948, in Kingston, Jamaica, was a prominent reggae artist who passed away on May 15, 2025. In late 1967, he formed a vocal group called the Versatiles and recorded their first session for release under Lee Perry's label, producing notable tracks such as "Just Can't Win," "The Time Has Come," and "Trust The Book," with musical backing from Lynn Taitt & the Jets. Between 1968 and 1974, Byles collaborated with Perry to create a series of hits, including "Curly Locks," "Rasta No Pickpocket," "Place Called Africa," "Beat Down Babylon," "King Of Babylon," "Cutting Razor," and "Long Way." By the mid-seventies, he had become a major star in Jamaica, on the verge of international recognition. However, his health began to decline, and he struggled with depression, leading to his admission to Bellevue Hospital, a psychiatric facility in Kingston, in 1976. Throughout the late 1970s, Byles was frequently hospitalized but continued to record significant music for various producers. His works from this period include "Chant Down Babylon" and "Pitchy Patchy" for Ja-Man Records, a remake of "King Of Babylon" for Niney The Observer and Lloyd F. Campbell, "False Leader," and the classic "Fade Away." Two albums were released

For any edit requests, please reach out to info@rovr.live