The Viceroys

The Viceroys, also known as The Voiceroys, The Interns, The Inturns, The Brothers, and The Hot Tops, are a reggae vocal group who first recorded in 1967.
The Viceroys: The Kings of Ska
When it comes to Jamaican ska music, The Viceroys have made an indelible mark on the genre. This vocal trio was formed in the early 1960s, and their unique sound helped them to stand out from other groups of the time. They are known for their rich harmonies and powerful lyrics that reflect the struggles of the working class in Jamaica. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the musical biography of The Viceroys, discover their best songs and popular concerts, and analyze a critic.
Willie Lindo started his own label, Coxsone, and recorded several hits with The Viceroys, including Chariot Coming, Ya Ho, and Heart Made of Stone. After a brief hiatus, they returned to the studio in 1977, working with producer Linval Thompson for several years. Thompson would record some of the group's best work, including We Must Unite, Heart Made Of Stone, Love Is All, and Brethren and Sistren.
Their music is firmly rooted in ska, a genre that emerged in Jamaica in the late 1950s. It is characterized by its upbeat tempo, strong horn section, and off-beat guitar and piano rhythms. The Viceroys' songs often addressed political and social issues, with a particular emphasis on the struggles faced by the working class.
Their best songs are We Must Unite, Heart Made Of Stone, Love Is All, Brethren and Sistren, and Rising In The Strength Of Jah. These songs showcase the band's unique sound and their ability to create powerful lyrics that resonate with listeners.
The Viceroys have had many popular concerts throughout their career. In 1978, they played at the One Love Peace Concert in Kingston, Jamaica, alongside several other legendary reggae artists such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Dennis Brown. They also headlined the 1982 Sunsplash festival, which drew thousands of fans from around the world.
One of the most popular critics of The Viceroys is David Katz, a respected music journalist and author. In his book Solid Foundation: An Oral History of Reggae he writes, The Viceroys were one of Jamaica's greatest harmony groups, feted as much for their lustrous harmonies as for their roots-tinged sound. Katz also praised their ability to address social and political issues in their music, noting that they carved out a significant niche for themselves with their sincere commentary on the struggles of everyday life in Jamaica.
The Viceroys have left an indelible mark on the Jamaican music scene. Their unique sound, powerful lyrics, and ability to address social and political issues have made them an important cultural force. Their best songs, iconic concerts, and critical acclaim have solidified their place in music history, and they will continue to inspire musicians and listeners for generations to come.
The Viceroys have left an indelible mark on the Jamaican music scene. Their unique sound, powerful lyrics, and ability to address social and political issues have made them an important cultural force. Their best songs, iconic concerts, and critical acclaim have solidified their place in music history, and they will continue to inspire musicians and listeners for generations to come.