Circa 1948 – 1973
Slim Smith, born Keith Smith, started out in the early 60s as a founding member of The Techniques. He later joined the ranks of producer Coxsone Dodd cutting some notable sides collected on the classic “Born To Love” set. His Studio One recordings brilliantly highlight his passionate, soulful voice.
The end of the 60s saw Slim working with Bunny “Striker” Lee, both as a solo artist and as a member of The Uniques, that included singers Jimmy Riley and Lloyd Chalmers. The group scoring with the memorable “My Conversation” and “Gypsy Woman” to name a few.
The cause of Slim’s Smith’s untimely death in 1973 is the subject of much debate. There were different stories of how the 25 year old singer cut his hand on a window and bled to death before anyone found him. Whether his death was caused by depression and subsequently suicide is still not really known.
Hits include:
- “New Boss”
- “Hip Hug”
- “Rougher Yet”