DOREEN SHAFFER & THE STEADYTONES - THE FIRST LADY OF SKA

Monika Johnson, better known as Doreen Shaffer, is arguably the most active original Jamaican singer of the last 50 years. A founding member of The Skatalites since 1963, she has toured the world countless times, carrying the legacy of Ska, Rocksteady, and Reggae music to the most remote corners of the planet, from the most underground venues to the biggest festivals.

Her work as the frontwoman of The Skatalites is possibly what will consecrate her and for which she will be remembered for centuries; however, her brief solo work, such as this single that we are dealing with today, confirms her as one of the best Jamaican singers of all time.

Jamaica's independence in 1962 ushered in a wave of musical creativity that continues to benefit not only the Caribbean island today. The Steadytones recreate that golden age of music, making it more tangible, audible, and perceptible. A perfect band to accompany the 'First Lady of Ska'.

Brilliant interpreters of the diverse styles that emerged in the 1960s, particularly in Jamaica, but also in other parts of the world, they take their explosive reggae far beyond the borders of their native Germany. Their work with such renowned and influential artists as Stranger Cole, Keith & Tex, and Doreen Shaffer confirms their status as one of today's most highly regarded bands.

The chemistry produced by the meeting between Doreen and The Steadytones has been recorded in the studio and captured in this exquisitely produced single in which they make two standards from the last century their own, taking them into their own territory and giving them a new dimension for our enjoyment, an essential work in the discography of any lover of good music.

Tracklist:

A. Smile
B. I Can't Give you Anything But Love (Baby)