Delano Stewart
Albums
Facts about Delano Stewart
Delano Stewart was a Jamaican singer-songwriter known for his contributions to the rocksteady and reggae music genres during the 1960s and 1970s. Here are some key facts about him:
Early Career and The Gaylads: Delano Stewart began his music career as a member of the vocal group The Gaylads in the early 1960s. Alongside fellow singers Harris "B.B". Seaton and Maurice Roberts, Stewart helped establish The Gaylads as one of Jamaica's premier vocal harmony groups. The trio gained popularity with hits like "Lady with the Red Dress On" and "There's a Fire".
Solo Career and Hits: Delano Stewart embarked on a solo career in the late 1960s, releasing singles on various record labels such as Studio One and Coxsone. In 1969, he scored a major hit with the song "Stay a Little Bit Longer", which became an anthem in the rocksteady genre. The song's soulful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Stewart's smooth vocals resonated with audiences, cementing his reputation as a solo artist.
Contribution to the Rocksteady Genre: Delano Stewart was a key figure in the development of the rocksteady music genre, which emerged in Jamaica in the mid-1960s as a successor to ska. Rocksteady was characterized by its slower tempo, emphasis on vocal harmony, and soulful melodies. Stewart's recordings, both as a solo artist and with The Gaylads, exemplified the soulful sound of rocksteady and contributed to its popularity both in Jamaica and internationally.
Continued Influence: Despite his relatively short solo career, Delano Stewart's contributions to Jamaican music had a lasting impact. His recordings remain popular among fans of rocksteady and reggae music, and his songs have been covered by numerous artists over the years. Stewart's smooth, emotive vocal style continues to inspire singers in Jamaica and beyond, highlighting his enduring legacy in the music industry.
Later Years and Legacy: Delano Stewart's solo career slowed down in the 1970s, but his influence on Jamaican music endured. He continued to perform occasionally and remained active in the music community. Stewart's contributions to the rocksteady genre were recognized with his induction into the Jamaican Music Hall of Fame. Today, he is remembered as a pioneer of Jamaican music whose soulful voice and timeless recordings continue to captivate audiences around the world.