Capital Letters

Capital Letters is a British reggae band formed in Wolverhampton, England, in the late 1970s. Here are some key facts about this influential group:

1. Formation and Early Years: Capital Letters was formed in 1976 by a group of friends who shared a passion for reggae music. The original lineup consisted of lead vocalist and guitarist Danny McKeb, keyboardist and vocalist JB (real name Christopher John), bassist Junior Brown, drummer Desmond Mahoney, and percussionist Roderick "Sticks" Manuud. Influenced by the vibrant reggae scene of the 1970s, the band set out to create their own brand of roots reggae music, drawing inspiration from artists such as Bob Marley, Burning Spear, and The Wailers.

2. Debut Album and Success: Capital Letters gained recognition with the release of their debut album, "Headline News", in 1979. The album featured a blend of catchy melodies, conscious lyrics, and infectious rhythms, establishing the band as a rising force in the British reggae scene. The lead single, "Smoking My Ganja", became a hit in the UK and helped propel the album to success. Capital Letters' unique sound and socially conscious lyrics resonated with audiences, earning them a loyal following and critical acclaim.

3. Subsequent Albums and Evolution: Following the success of "Headline News", Capital Letters released several more albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including "Vinyard" (1982), "Reality" (1984), and "Wolverhampton" (1998). Each album showcased the band's evolution as musicians and songwriters, incorporating elements of dub, dancehall, and ska into their sound while staying true to their roots reggae foundation. Despite lineup changes over the years, Capital Letters continued to produce quality music that reflected their commitment to uplifting messages and infectious grooves.

4. Reunion and Revival: After a period of inactivity, Capital Letters reunited in the early 2000s, delighting fans with their return to the stage and studio. The band embarked on successful tours across Europe, performing at festivals and venues alongside other reggae legends. Their revival sparked renewed interest in their music, introducing a new generation of listeners to their timeless sound and positive vibes. Capital Letters' reunion reaffirmed their status as pioneers of British reggae and solidified their place in the annals of reggae history.

5. Legacy and Influence: Capital Letters' contributions to the reggae genre have left a lasting legacy, inspiring countless artists and fans around the world. Their infectious grooves, conscious lyrics, and soulful melodies continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, transcending cultural boundaries and musical genres. As pioneers of British reggae, Capital Letters helped pave the way for future generations of reggae musicians and bands, leaving an indelible mark on the global music landscape.

In summary, Capital Letters is a British reggae band renowned for their infectious rhythms, conscious lyrics, and positive vibes. With their pioneering sound and enduring legacy, they have earned their place as one of the most influential bands in the history of British reggae, con