With over half a century of career, it’s as if Johnny Osbourne has lived multiple lives: a privileged witness to the evolution of Jamaican music, he experienced the birth of reggae, dancehall, and then digital. Marked by numerous hits, including the classic “Truth and Right,” his career began in the 1960s and has continually evolved.
After debuting in 1967 with the Jamaican group The Wildcats and recording early tracks with Coxsone Dodd, he moved to Canada, experimenting with various bands. He made a sensational return to Jamaica in the 1980s, working notably with Studio One, which gave rise to the legendary album Truth and Rights and its iconic title track. Later, he recorded the successful album Folly Ranking with King Jammy.
Though more discreet from the 1990s onward, he made an unforgettable return to the stage in 2012 with a festival tour, once again showcasing his legendary stage presence. At the same time, he remained relevant, collaborating with prominent artists of the era, such as Chinese Man on the track “Independent Music” and Major Lazer on “Jah No Partial.
In 2023, Johnny Osbourne marked his grand return with a new album! Produced by Baco Records and in close collaboration with musician Stepper, this project has won over reggae aficionados.