Lee "Scratch" Perry

Lee "Scratch" Perry, a seminal figure in reggae music, was renowned for his innovative recording techniques and free-association vocal style that influenced generations of musicians across various genres. Beginning his career in the '60s, Perry played a pivotal role in shaping Jamaican music's transition to reggae, producing influential works by artists like Bob Marley & the Wailers and Junior Murvin. His eccentric personality and unique approach to music production garnered a dedicated following in the U.K. and collaborations with renowned acts like the Clash. Despite personal and professional challenges, Perry remained active in the music scene, continuously releasing new material and collaborating with artists until his passing in 2021.

Born in rural Jamaica in 1936, Perry's early career saw him working with prominent figures in the ska and reggae scenes before establishing his own label, Upsetter. Throughout the '70s, he released a prolific amount of music under various pseudonyms, earning acclaim for instrumental tracks that solidified his reputation as a reggae trailblazer. Perry's later years were marked by collaborations with contemporary artists and reissues of his classic works, showcasing his enduring influence in the music industry. Despite setbacks and personal struggles, Perry's legacy as a boundary-pushing producer and artist remains unparalleled, leaving an indelible mark on reggae and beyond.