Check out these new and used Alton Ellis vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Alton Ellis vinyl collection with the essential albums Sunday Coming, Mr. Soul Of Jamaica and Still In Love. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from reggae musicians.

Alton Ellis: A Musical Journey Through Time

Alton Ellis: The Pioneer of Rocksteady

Alton Ellis, a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and one of the pioneers of rocksteady music, left an indelible mark on the reggae and ska scenes. Born on September 1, 1938, in Kingston, Jamaica, Ellis began his musical journey at a young age, showcasing an extraordinary talent that would eventually influence generations of musicians.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Growing up in Trenchtown, a vibrant musical community in Kingston, Ellis was exposed to the rich sounds of ska and rhythm and blues. His early influences included artists like Nat King Cole and Sam Cooke, whose soulful voices resonated with him. These influences laid the foundation for Ellis’s distinctive vocal style, characterized by smoothness and emotional depth. Here are the Alton Ellis Tracks and Albums.

The Formation of The Flames

In the early 1960s, Alton Ellis joined forces with his brother Leslie Ellis and David “Baby G” Gordon to form The Flames. This collaboration marked the beginning of a remarkable era in Jamaican music. The Flames, later known as Alton Ellis and The Flames, produced some of the most iconic and influential tracks of the rocksteady era.

Discography: Exploring Alton Ellis Vinyl

Alton Ellis’s discography is a treasure trove of timeless classics, each album reflecting the evolution of his musical style and lyrical prowess. Let’s delve into some of the standout albums that showcase Ellis’s artistry:

1. “Mr. Soul of Jamaica” (1967)

“Mr. Soul of Jamaica” is a landmark album that solidified Alton Ellis’s reputation as a soulful crooner. The album features soul covers and original compositions, blending American soul with Jamaican rhythms. Tracks like “Cry Tough” and “Breaking Up” exemplify Ellis’s ability to convey raw emotions through his velvety voice.

2. “Alton Ellis Sings Rock and Soul” (1967)

Released in the same year as “Mr. Soul of Jamaica,” this album further demonstrated Ellis’s versatility. The fusion of rocksteady and soul elements on tracks like “Willow Tree” and “Ain’t That Loving You” showcased his ability to transcend musical boundaries.

3. “Arise Black Man” (1969)

“Arise Black Man” marked a shift in Alton Ellis’s lyrical focus, addressing social and political issues prevalent in Jamaica during the late 1960s. The title track, along with “Black Man’s Pride,” became anthems of empowerment for the black community.

4. “Still in Love” (1977)

As reggae gained international recognition, Ellis continued to evolve his sound. “Still in Love” is a testament to his adaptability, featuring a seamless blend of lovers rock and roots reggae. The title track, “Still in Love,” remains a classic in the genre.

Musical Impact: Alton Ellis’s Influence on Other Artists

Alton Ellis’s contributions to the Jamaican music scene extend beyond his own recordings. His distinctive vocal style, poignant lyrics, and role in the development of rocksteady have influenced numerous artists across genres. Some notable musicians who drew inspiration from Ellis include:

1. Bob Marley

Bob Marley, the global icon of reggae music, acknowledged Alton Ellis as a significant influence on his early career. Marley’s exploration of socially conscious lyrics and his smooth vocal delivery can be traced back to the impact of Ellis’s work.

2. Dennis Brown

Known as the “Crown Prince of Reggae,” Dennis Brown admired Alton Ellis’s ability to infuse soul into reggae music. Brown’s expressive singing style and emotional depth were undoubtedly influenced by Ellis’s earlier contributions.

3. Beres Hammond

Beres Hammond, a prominent figure in lovers rock and reggae, credits Alton Ellis as a major inspiration. Hammond’s romantic ballads and smooth vocal delivery echo the soulful qualities found in Ellis’s work.

Alton Ellis Vinyl: Timeless and Collectible

The resurgence of interest in vinyl records has brought renewed attention to Alton Ellis’s discography, particularly his classic releases. Collectors and enthusiasts seek out original pressings of his albums, appreciating the warmth and authenticity of the analog format.

Collectible Vinyl Releases:

1. “The Duke Reid Collection” (1969)

This compilation album, featuring some of Ellis’s early hits recorded with legendary producer Duke Reid, is a sought-after piece among collectors. The pristine sound quality and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any vinyl enthusiast’s collection.

2. “Best of Alton Ellis” (1973)

Released during a period of reggae’s global expansion, this compilation captures the essence of Alton Ellis’s career up to that point. The vinyl edition, with its original cover art, stands as a testament to Ellis’s enduring popularity.

3. “Sunday Coming” (1970)

Considered one of Ellis’s masterpieces, “Sunday Coming” is a must-have for vinyl enthusiasts. The album’s soulful ballads and rocksteady beats are best experienced on the original vinyl pressing, capturing the essence of the era.

Alton Ellis Vinyl: A Gateway to Similar Sounds

Exploring Alton Ellis’s vinyl releases opens the door to a world of similar sounds and genres that shaped the Jamaican music landscape. Here are some artists and bands that share musical elements with Ellis:

1. The Paragons

As contemporaries of Alton Ellis, The Paragons were instrumental in the development of rocksteady. Their harmonious vocals and soulful melodies mirror Ellis’s approach, making their vinyl releases essential for collectors of the era.

2. John Holt

John Holt, another influential figure in the rocksteady and reggae genres, shares similarities with Alton Ellis in terms of vocal delivery and lyrical depth. Holt’s vinyl releases, especially those from the late 1960s and early 1970s, complement the era captured by Ellis.

3. The Heptones

Known for their smooth harmonies and soulful compositions, The Heptones’ vinyl releases align with the rocksteady sound that defined Alton Ellis’s early career. Collectors often seek out their albums to complete a comprehensive exploration of the genre.

Legacy and Lasting Influence

Alton Ellis’s legacy extends far beyond his time on this earth. His impact on the evolution of Jamaican music, from ska to rocksteady and reggae, is immeasurable. Through his timeless vinyl releases, Ellis continues to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners, ensuring that his soulful voice remains eternally woven into the fabric of reggae history.