lee perry

The Upsetter: A Groovy History of Lee “Scratch” Perry

Lee “Scratch” Perry – a name synonymous with dub, reggae, and pure sonic weirdness. His impact on music goes far beyond just his own pioneering sound. He’s the godfather of a genre, the creator of a movement, and a true iconoclast.

From Jungle to Studio One: Born in 1936 in rural Jamaica, Perry’s path to musical stardom wasn’t straightforward. He started out working on a banana plantation, later evolving into a “sound system” operator, showcasing music and eventually his own productions. This journey took him to Kingston, where he met the legendary Coxsone Dodd at Studio One, the epicenter of Jamaican music. There, he learned the ropes, produced some of the earliest ska tracks, and honed his unique sound.

The Upsetter Rises: By the late 60s, Perry’s creative spirit couldn’t be contained within the confines of Studio One. He launched his own label, “Upsetter,” and the name became a symbol of his rebellious, innovative spirit. Perry’s productions were unlike anything heard before. He experimented with echo, reverb, and tape manipulation, creating a sonic landscape of eerie echoes, warped vocals, and otherworldly textures. This was the birth of “dub” – a stripped-down, instrumental version of reggae that resonated with a deep, psychedelic feel.

The Black Ark & Beyond: In 1973, Perry built his own studio – a mystical space he called the “Black Ark.” This became his creative haven, where he pushed the boundaries of sound even further. It was a whirlwind of creativity, attracting the likes of Bob Marley, Junior Murvin, The Congos, and countless others. The Black Ark became a legend, a melting pot of musical innovation, and a testament to Perry’s artistic vision. Sadly, the studio burned down in 1983, but the music it produced still reverberates through the ages.

The “Mad Professor”: While known for his musical genius, Perry’s eccentricity also became a defining characteristic. He was a true “mad professor,” embracing mysticism, and claiming to have supernatural powers. He built his own “atomic amplifier,” claimed to speak to spirits, and even had a “sonic weapon” he believed could control the weather! This unpredictable nature fueled his creative drive, adding a further layer of fascination to his persona.

Beyond the Beats: Lee “Scratch” Perry’s influence extends beyond his own music. He has collaborated with countless artists from various genres, ranging from The Clash to Beastie Boys. His experimental spirit and unconventional approach continue to inspire new generations of musicians, ensuring his legacy as a true innovator and sonic visionary.

Funny Facts:

• The “Atomic Amplifier”: Perry claimed to have invented a device capable of amplifying sound beyond human perception, resulting in “sonic weapons” that could control the weather.
• The “Supernatural Studio”: The Black Ark was a place of mythical proportions, fueled by Perry’s mystical beliefs. He reportedly used candles to illuminate the studio, and the “spirits” he claimed to channel often dictated the music he produced.
• The “Scratch” Origins: The nickname “Scratch” came from Perry’s innovative use of record scratching, long before its adoption in hip-hop. He employed this technique to create unique sound effects in his productions.
• The “Upsetter” Spirit: This nickname wasn’t just a catchy label. It reflected Perry’s relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries, challenging the status quo, and creating music that defied categorization.

Lee “Scratch” Perry’s music may be strange, it may be wild, but it is undeniably unique. His life and work are a testament to the power of creativity, pushing the boundaries of music, and embracing the unconventional. He is the “Upsetter,” the “Mad Professor,” and a true legend of Jamaican music.