The Melodians
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[edit] History
The Melodians were formed in Kingston, Jamaica in 1963. Members included Trevor McNaughton, Tony Brevett, Brent Gayford Dowe, and Renford Cogle. They were discovered at a local singing contest in 1965 and made their recording debut for the legendary producer Clement "Coxsone" Dodd. From 1967 to 1968 they had a number of hits on Duke Reid's Treasure Isle label, including "You Have Caught Me," "Expo 67," "I'll Get Along Without You," and "You Don't Need Me." After recording "Swing and Dine" for producer Sonia Pottinger, they recorded their biggest hit, "Rivers of Babylon" for Leslie Kong. This song became an anthem of the Rastafarian movement, and was featured on the soundtrack for the movie The Harder They Come. After Kong's death in 1971, they recorded for Lee Perry and Byron Lee's Dynamic Studios. In 1973, Brent Dowe left the group for a solo career. The group reformed briefly a few years later and again in the early 1980's.
[edit] Influence and Popularity
Before the Wailers came on to the scene, the Melodians were one of the biggest names in reggae music. Many of the lyrics of their later music reflected Rastafarian beliefs. This spiritual aspect, coupled with their catchy melodies and strong rhythms, made them enormously popular in their home country of Jamaica.
