The Roosevelt Singers: "Heavy Reggae (Johnny Reggae)". Sioux Records, 1972. Demo
£
26
$
34
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Description
Roosevelt Singers: Heavy Reggae (Johnny Reggae)
b/w The Hong Gang: Smoking Wild
Sioux Records; SI 025; 1972. Demo.
Sioux was one of a number of small specialist record companies that tried to market original Jamaican reggae in the UK in the early 1970s. A subsidiary of President Records (who had already had one previous attempt at reggae with its Jay Boy label), Sioux Records released a total of twenty five singles in its year of existence, including some of the finest material of the period from the studios of Harry J and Arthur “Duke” Reid. None of these singles sold outside of the relatively tiny market for heavy, original Jamaican music and all Sioux releases are now desirable and valuable.
As you can see from the large, overprinted “A”, this is a demo copy of the final single released by Sioux, Heavy Reggae by the Roosevelt Singers. This single was originally released on the Roosevelt label in Jamaica. I can’t find any information about the Roosevelt Singers online, so – as is suggested by the band’s name – I assume they were session musicians. The only named musician I can find suggested as making an appearance on the record is Dave Collins. The record was produced by Harry Johnson (Harry J). The flip side of the single is credited to the Hong Gang (perhaps the Jay Boys / Harry J All stars).
This example of Heavy Reggae is in very nice condition indeed. It has only the very faintest of surface marks and plays perfectly. The labels are bright and clean as you can see. It comes in a plain white sleeve.
Just incidentally, in an unexpected twist on the usual state of affairs, Heavy Reggae is based on the novelty British reggae record, Johnny Reggae, by Jonathan King, released under the pseudonym, “The Piglets” in 1971. If you’ve only ever heard that version, then check out this adaptation, which is sensational.
So, make no mistake, this is a very scarce record. There are no copies of the standard release listed on Discogs at the moment, let alone a demo copy. This is a rare opportunity to get hold of this record. You might never see another!
UK Postage and packing: £2.50
International postage and packing: Click on the “Postage and Payments” tab above to see prices to overseas destinations.
All postage prices quoted (UK and international) are maximum charges. If postage and packing costs less than these estimates, I will refund the difference after posting (subject to the difference being £1.00 or more. Unless otherwise indicated, the postage prices I give in the listing are for a tracked and signed-for service, as required by eBay. If however, winning buyers would prefer cheaper options, I am always happy to help with that if I can. Please contact me for a quote.
I hope this description has given you enough to go on but should you require any further information, or more images, please do e-mail. Please also look carefully at the hi-res photos – they are part of the description. Thanks for your interest in this auction and good luck if you decide to bid.
Please note: I will not respond to requests to close the auction early regardless of the value of the offer made. Ending early is contrary to both the principle and spirit of an auction. It is also unfair to other eBayers who may be watching the auction intending to bid at a later time.
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