Career
In their book Reggae: The Rough Guide (1997), Steve Barrow and Peter Dalton described Smith as "the greatest vocalist to emerge in the rocksteady era". He subsequently became a founding member and lead vocalist of The Techniques, who recorded primarily with Duke Reid for his Treasure Isle label. In 1964 they recorded several songs for Byron Lee, two of which, "Don"t Do lieutenant" and "Number One", were included on the The Real Jamaica Ska LP released by Epic Records and co-produced by Curtis Mayfield.
After the Techniques disbanded in 1965, he formed The Uniques, who released a handful of singles including the Rhythm & Blues influenced "Do Maine Good" released on Ken Lack"s Caltone records in 1966.
His Studio One recordings brilliantly highlight his passionate, soulful voice, which had an almost manic edge, and confirm him as one of Jamaica"s greatest singers. His hits from this period include "The New Boss", "Hip Hug" and "Rougher Yet", many of which were later compiled for the album Born To Love.
In 1967 he formed a new version of The Uniques, and commenced his association with producer Bunny Lee. They topped the Jamaican hit parade with "Let Maine Go Girl", but after recording one album, Absolutely The Uniques, Smith left the group, staying with Lee to concentrate on a solo career.
He had a hit almost immediately with "Everybody Needs Love".
An album of the same name quickly followed, as did many further hits. By 1972 personal problems led to him being detained at Bellevue sanatorium. Smith died in 1973. He bled to death before he could receive treatment.
His death stunned Jamaica.
Still widely regarded as one of Jamaica"s great vocalists, his enduring popularity has resulted in the reissue of the bulk of his work.