Log in to your account
Stats
Biography
Born Winston Foster, Yellowman grew up in Negril, Jamaica, suffering from a difficult childhood due to his albinism, to which he found solace in music. Having gained a job with the Gemini Sound System as a backing DJ, Yellowman began to turn heads through his colourful outfits (wearing a bright yellow suit) and his humorous yet outrageous lyrics of sexual conquests. Entering the Tastee Talent Contest in 1979, Yellowman walked away with a landslide victory, soon becoming a household name across Jamaica, becoming notorious for his live shows that would often see him gesticulating to the audience with his microphone.
Delivering release after release, Yellowman’s recording output was prolific at the start of the decade, dropping more than 40 singles on an eager audience. In 1981, his debut album, “Them a Mad Over Me,” was released on Channel One, scoring a number of hits. With 1982’s “Mister Yellowman,” the young artist teamed up with producer Henry “Junjo” Lawes, offering a fresh dancehall sound, with many considering this to be his best album. Despite this success, Yellowman did garner criticism for his lyrics that often were degrading to women.
After 1983’s “Zungguzungguguzungguzeng,” Yellowma gained a record contract with major label, CBS Records. The mishmash sounds of “King Yellowman” failed to impress and it wasn’t log before he was dropped. Moving to Shanachie, his following releases garnered more positive acclaim, through which he tackled social issues such as domestic violence, South Africa’s apartheid regime and pro-marijuana protests.
Yellowman’s growing momentum was set aback after he was diagnosed with throat cancer, an illness which resulted in a portion of his jaw being removed. Changed after recovering, Yellowman completely dropped his former person of controversial, lewd lyrics, instead dedicating his lyrics to positive spiritual and social matters. With “Prayer” in 1994, “Message to the World” in 1995 and “Freedom of Speech” in 1997, the title’s speak for themselves, evidence of Yellowman’s changing direction. “New York” (2003) and “Round 1” (2005) continued to keep Yellowman in the charts, whilst he also travelled internationally to perform.
Yellowman’s music has being sampled on a number of hip-hop tracks, most notably of his hit track, “Zungguzungguguzunngguzeng.” From Backstair to KRS-One to Notorious B.I.G., they have all utilised Yellowman’s hit for their own music. He has also collaborated with Run-DMC on the track, “Roots Rap Reggae.”
Live reviews
While never a huge fan of reggae, I did have an opportunity to see Yellowman in concert in 1982 and found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable experience - something out of my "norm," but a fun time nevertheless.There is something about this performer that is very appealing. He struts back and forth across the stage and draws his audience into his movements, the beat of the music, and the lyrics. I was surrounded by a happy and smiling and laughing audience during his performance.
It's hard not to find yourself getting caught up in his music, tapping along with your foot or nodding your head!I particularly enjoyed the song that included his version of the children's song "This Old Man."It is easy to see why the hip hop community has embraced this performer who grew up in a Jamaican orphanage.
With his Jamaican accent and his bounding beat, it is easy to see why.While I have never had another opportunity to see Yellowman live n concert since that one time, I have never forgotten it and often make it a point to watch videos of his performances on YouTube.
I find his music to be upbeat and positive and I would likely see him perform live again if the opportunity presented itself.
Yelloman~! King Yellowman.
Great show awesome energy. Yellowman was on fire delivering an awesome show with all of his favorites.
Its too bad the house engineer at the echoplex is only talented with crushing the sound of a great artist into utter bone rattling mush.
Earplugs were required at this show and even with them the show was firing at an average of 105db. Would have loved to see all of the set but after 2-3 hours of the audio assault (2 prior bands + Yellowman) it was just time to leave.
Echoplex get a competent sound team~!
ososnell
What a showman! Much respect to King Yellowman! I consider it a privilege to be in the presence of true reggae royalty. This was the second time I've seen Yellowman and the Sagittarius Band this year. Great shows! Tight band. Yellowman forever!
curt-carleen
