Big Youth

Bio

Big Youth (born Manley Augustus Buchanan on 19 April 1949 in Trenchtown, Jamaica) is a pioneering Jamaican deejay and singer whose career began in the late 1960s. He rose to prominence in the early 1970s with his distinctive toasting style and socially conscious lyrics, becoming one of the most influential figures in reggae and dub music. His breakthrough came with hits like "Screaming Target" and "Tipper Tone Rocking," which showcased his ability to blend conscious messages with dancehall energy. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he recorded extensively for producers such as Augustus Pablo and Joe Gibbs, releasing numerous albums that helped define the roots reggae and dub genres. Big Youth's influence extends beyond Jamaica, with his work impacting artists across reggae, hip-hop, and electronic music. His signature vocal style and commitment to social commentary helped establish the deejay as a legitimate musical voice rather than merely an entertainer.