1. Early Life:
- Tenor Saw was born in 1966 in the Waterhouse district of Kingston, Jamaica, an area known for its roots in reggae music.
- His father, Leroy Perry, was a sound system operator, which influenced Tenor Saw's early exposure to music.
2. Musical Career:
- Tenor Saw began his career in the early 1980s as a deejay on the sound systems in Kingston. His early performances showcased his raw talent and unique vocal delivery.
- He recorded his first hit song, "Roll Call," in 1984, which quickly gained popularity and established his presence in the dancehall scene.
- Throughout the 1980s, Tenor Saw released several hit singles and albums that blended dancehall rhythms with soulful melodies. His songs often addressed topics of social injustice, poverty, and the struggles of everyday people.
- Some of his most notable songs include "Ring the Alarm," "Pumpkin Belly," "Love's Got a Hold on Me," and "Fever."
3. Collaborations:
- Tenor Saw collaborated with other prominent reggae artists, such as Shabba Ranks, Johnny Osbourne, and King Jammy, among others.
- He also worked with renowned producers, including King Jammy, Donovan Germain, and Gussie Clarke, who helped shape his signature sound.
4. International Success:
- Tenor Saw's music gained international recognition in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and he toured extensively throughout the world.
- He performed at major reggae festivals, including Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica and Summer Jam in the United States, and gained a loyal following of fans worldwide.
5. Tragic Death:
- On April 18, 1988, Tenor Saw's promising career was cut short when he died in a tragic car accident in Kingston, Jamaica, at the age of 21.
- His untimely death shocked the music industry and left a void in the reggae community.
6. Legacy:
- Despite his relatively brief career, Tenor Saw left a profound impact on the reggae and dancehall scene.
- He is remembered for his soulful voice, captivating stage presence, and ability to connect with audiences through his thought-provoking lyrics.
- His music continues to be celebrated and sampled by artists from different genres, keeping his legacy alive.
Tenor Saw's contributions to reggae music, his distinctive voice, and his influence on the dancehall movement solidify his place as one of the most talented and memorable artists in Jamaican music history.