Prince Buster’s studio sessions were more than just recording dates; they were creative incubators where some of the most influential music of the 20th century was born
Prince Buster, born Cecil Bustamente Campbell, is a towering figure in the history of Jamaican music, known for his pioneering contributions to ska and rocksteady. His studio sessions were legendary, not only for the music they produced but also for the vibrant and sometimes chaotic atmosphere that surrounded them. Here, we delve into some of the untold stories from Prince Buster’s studio sessions, offering a glimpse into the creative process and the colorful anecdotes that have become part of reggae folklore.
A Master of Innovation
Prince Buster was not just a performer but a true innovator in the studio. He had an innate ability to blend various musical influences, from American R&B and jazz to traditional Jamaican mento, creating a unique sound that defined the ska genre. His studio, Record Shack, located on Orange Street in Kingston, became a hub of musical experimentation and creativity.
One of the key innovations Prince Buster introduced was the use of the offbeat guitar strum, which became a hallmark of ska music. This rhythmic shift gave ska its distinctive upbeat feel and set the stage for the evolution of rocksteady and reggae. According to an interview with Buster, the idea came from observing the interplay between different musical genres and experimenting with rhythmic patterns until something clicked.
Collaborations with Musical Legends
Prince Buster’s studio sessions were a magnet for some of the most talented musicians and vocalists in Jamaica. He worked with legendary artists such as Derrick Morgan, Desmond Dekker, and The Maytals. One notable session involved the recording of “Oh Carolina” by the Folkes Brothers, a track produced by Prince Buster that featured the drumming of Count Ossie, a pioneer of the Rastafarian nyabinghi drumming style. This fusion of traditional African drumming with modern ska rhythms created a groundbreaking sound that resonated with audiences both in Jamaica and internationally.
In another famous session, Prince Buster collaborated with trombonist Rico Rodriguez. Rodriguez, who later gained fame as a member of The Specials, contributed to several of Buster’s hits, including “Wash Wash” and “One Step Beyond.” These sessions were marked by a spirit of improvisation and spontaneity, with musicians often recording live in the studio to capture the raw energy of their performances.
The Infamous Feud with Derrick Morgan
One of the most talked-about aspects of Prince Buster’s career was his rivalry with fellow artist Derrick Morgan. The feud began when Morgan, who initially recorded for Buster, switched to rival producer Leslie Kong. This led to a series of musical exchanges where both artists took jabs at each other through their songs.
During one particularly heated studio session, Prince Buster recorded “Blackhead Chinaman,” a track aimed at Morgan. In response, Morgan recorded “Blazing Fire,” further escalating the feud. These sessions were tense but also highly creative, pushing both artists to produce some of their best work. The rivalry ultimately helped to fuel the competitive spirit of the Jamaican music scene, leading to a period of prolific musical output.
Recording “Madness” and Shaping British Ska
Prince Buster’s influence extended beyond Jamaica, particularly impacting the British ska revival of the late 1970s and early 1980s. One of the most iconic tracks from this period is “Madness,” recorded in 1963. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics made it a hit in Jamaica and later inspired the British band Madness, who took their name from the track.
In the studio, the recording of “Madness” was a lively affair, with Buster’s charismatic personality driving the session. Musicians recalled Buster’s insistence on multiple takes until the perfect version was captured, reflecting his commitment to quality and his vision for the song. The track’s success paved the way for the 2 Tone movement in the UK, with bands like Madness, The Specials, and The Selecter citing Prince Buster as a major influence.
The Mythical Studio Ghost
No account of Prince Buster’s studio sessions would be complete without mentioning the mythical studio ghost. According to legend, Buster’s studio was haunted by a mischievous spirit that would occasionally disrupt recording sessions. Musicians reported strange occurrences, such as instruments going out of tune and unexpected noises being captured on tape. One session in particular stood out for its eerie events: during the recording of a track, a sudden, unexplainable drop in temperature chilled the room, followed by a series of peculiar noises that appeared on the playback tape but were not heard during the recording itself.
While these stories are likely apocryphal, they add to the mystique of Prince Buster’s studio and the larger-than-life persona he cultivated. The presence of the so-called “studio ghost” became a part of the folklore surrounding his recordings, with musicians and producers alike swapping tales of their eerie experiences. This mystique only added to the allure of Buster’s music, creating an atmosphere where the lines between reality and legend blurred.
Legacy and Impact
Prince Buster’s studio sessions were more than just recording dates; they were creative incubators where some of the most influential music of the 20th century was born. His willingness to experiment, his ability to bring together talented musicians, and his charismatic leadership left an indelible mark on the music industry. The stories from these sessions continue to inspire and entertain, reflecting the enduring legacy of a true musical pioneer.
