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Dennis Brown: 11 little-known facts about Reggae's crowned prince

Dennis Brown: 11 little-known facts about Reggae's crowned prince

If you're a true Reggae fan, chances are you've been charmed by the musical stylings of lover's rock, courtesy of Reggae's crowned prince, Dennis Brown.

Brown is a Jamaican singer who was born on February 1, 1957, in Kingston, Jamaica, to parents who were both singers.

His exceptional musical talent and meaningful lyrics made him a global superstar quickly.

And even though he's no longer with us, his impact lives on through his children and other Reggae artists who continue to perform soulful lover's rock music.

So, do you think you know everything about this iconic figure?

Here are 11 lesser-known facts about Reggae's crowned prince to put your knowledge to the test.

Career started at 11 years old

Dennis Brown's remarkable musical journey started at 11 years old when he recorded his first track, "No Man Is an Island."

Recorded more than 70 albums

Before his untimely death, Dennis Brown recorded around 75 albums, a staggering legacy that many Reggae musicians wish to achieve. 

Dubbed the "Michael Jackson of Reggae"

Brown's early recordings showcased his extraordinary talent, earning him recognition as a child prodigy within the music industry.

Endorsed by Bob Marley

Reggae icon Bob Marley hailed Brown as "The Crown Prince of Reggae" and publicly stated that Brown was his favorite singer.

Worked with Byron Lee and The Dragonaires


In his early days in the music business, he performed with one of the leading bands in Jamaica, Byron Lee and the Dragonaires. 

Considering his small stature at just nine years old, he stood on beer boxes during performances

Recorded two albums in two days

In 1988 with Clement "Coxsone" Dodd at Studio One, Brown recorded two albums, "No Man Is an Island" and "If I Follow My Heart," in the space of two days.

These albums went on to become two of his greatest works. 

Early guidance from Derrick Harriott and Joe Gibbs


Dennis Brown commenced his career under the guidance of Derrick Harriott, and by the early 1970s, he had inked a deal with producer Joe Gibbs.

Credited for popularizing Lover's Rock

This subgenre of Reggae music was made popular by Brown, who recorded timeless Reggae songs that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide

Fathered 13 children


Brown is survived by 13 children, five of whom he shared with his wife, Yvonne. 

Reggae Month


February is celebrated annually as Reggae Month in Jamaica as an honor to Dennis Brown and other great Reggae legends, suitably so as the first of the month is the anniversary of his birth. 

International Reggae Day

It is celebrated every year on July 1st in honor of The "Crowned Prince of Reggae". This was also the day he passed away in 1999.

Reggae history

Did you already know these lesser-known facts about one of Jamaica's iconic musical figures?

If so, consider yourself a true Dennis Brown fan!

Moreover, dig deeper into Jamaica's rich history of Reggae music by booking one of the fascinating tours of the homes and former workspaces of the island's most illustrious musicians.

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