It is one of those songs Its spoken word intro (“I am the magnificent!!”) is among the most recognizeable lines in pop music. Both that intro and the fluid melody lines have been sampled and cited innumerable times by artistes in virtually every sub-genre of pop music.
But even as the Jamaican classic “Double Barrel” notches its 40th anniversary of release this year, keyboardist Ansel Collins still has mixed feelings about the tune which has essentially immortalized him among music aficionados. It is a conundrum that’s heightened as he prepares to reunite with Dave Barker (born David John Crooks ), at the upcoming LONDON INTL SKA FESTIVAL, scheduled for April 21-24 in the British capital.
Speaking by telephone, Collins recounted the genesis of the song, which he said was actually recorded back in 1969. “Well is me really put that tune together, you know” he recalls. “We went into what they then called Dynamic Sounds and the idea for the tune just come to me. Sly (that is reggae drumming legend Sly Dunbar, then a mere 14 years old) play on it, and From we set it I knew it was gonna be big,” That prescience however, did not extend to him securing full rights to his creation, a fact which today dampens any celebratory feelings he may have given the song’s reach and longevity. In fact, he states that barker’s now renowned vocal was added after the initial record was made. The song was credited to Winston Riley, of the Techniques fame.
Double Barrel, released on Techniques Records, part of the Trojan Records label, topped the Jamaican charts, and went on to further success overseas. The single reached #1 on the UK Singles Charts for two weeks in April 1971 and reached the top 30 of the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #22. A sequel of sorts, “Monkey Spanner” also enjoyed some international success, but Collins says he and Barker never again recorded thereafter. He has written nad recorded a considerable amount of new material. As a sessions musician, he has contributed to many of the biggest rocksteady and reggae tracks.
The London International Ska Festival will be held at The Clapham Grand Theatre, and will feature 37 bands & DJs from 11 countries, showcasing the very best of the music form that is the precursor to reggae. The festival will in fact encompass the whole spectrum of Jamaican pop music, progressing from the classic ska sound through rocksteady and reggae, and coming right up to today’s contemporary interpretations of Ska sounds.
The headliners include Jamaican legends Ken Boothe, Bob Andy and Marcia Griffiths as well as Collins. It will also feature bands from the UK, Italy and other countries.
