Lyn Taitt

Innovative Jamaican Guitarist and Bandleader: Lyn Taitt was a pioneering Jamaican guitarist and bandleader known for his influential contributions to the development of ska and rocksteady music in the 1960s. Born on June 22, 1934, in San Fernando, Trinidad, Taitt moved to Jamaica in the late 1950s and quickly became a prominent figure in the island's music scene. His innovative guitar playing and arrangements helped shape the sound of Jamaican music during a pivotal era of its evolution.

Architect of the "Lyn Taitt Sound": Lyn Taitt is credited with creating the distinctive guitar-driven sound that became synonymous with ska and rocksteady music. His melodic guitar lines, characterized by their rhythmic precision and soulful expression, provided the backbone for numerous hit songs recorded by artists such as The Skatalites, The Paragons, and The Melodians. Taitt's guitar style, often referred to as the "chicken scratch" or "chicken picking" technique, contributed to the infectious energy and danceable rhythms that defined the early ska and rocksteady sound.

Formation of The Jets and Studio One Connection: Lyn Taitt formed his backing band, The Jets, in the early 1960s, comprising some of Jamaica's most talented musicians, including bassist Jackie Jackson and drummer Hugh Malcolm. The Jets served as the house band for the legendary Studio One recording studio, where they backed numerous artists and recorded instrumental tracks that would become iconic ska and rocksteady tunes. Taitt's collaboration with Studio One producer Clement "Coxsone" Dodd yielded many classic recordings, solidifying his reputation as a premier guitarist and arranger in Jamaican music.

Transition to Rocksteady: As the ska genre evolved into rocksteady in the mid-1960s, Lyn Taitt played a pivotal role in shaping the new sound. His arrangements became more refined, incorporating elements of soul, rhythm and blues, and jazz into the music. Taitt's collaborations with vocal groups such as The Paragons and The Melodians produced some of the era's most enduring hits, including "The Tide Is High" and "You Have Caught Me". His musical innovation and adaptability helped propel rocksteady to new heights of popularity both in Jamaica and internationally.

Legacy and Influence: Lyn Taitt's contributions to Jamaican music have left an indelible mark on the island's musical landscape. His innovative guitar playing, distinctive arrangements, and role as a bandleader helped define the sound of ska and rocksteady during their formative years. Taitt's influence can be heard in the music of subsequent generations of Jamaican musicians and has resonated with artists worldwide, ensuring his legacy as a true pioneer of Caribbean music.