Grammy-winning reggae superstars Black Uhuru enters their 7:30 p.m. Friday evening show at Honokaa People’s Theatre on a roll.
Their latest album, “As the World Turns,” was nominated for Best Reggae Album at the 61st Grammy Awards and spent the last three months of 2018 on the reggae charts. They also charted two singles off the album, “Jah Guide” and “Chalice.”
From Kingston, Jamaica’s Waterhouse District, Black Uhuru has been reggae royalty for a half-century and won the first ever Best Reggae Recording Grammy for its groundbreaking album “Anthem” in 1985. Lead singer Oneil “Andrew Bees” Beckford and legendary founding member Derrick “Duckie” Simpson anchor the seven-piece reggae juggernaut.
The “classic Uhuru” sound is a unique style full of heavy drum and bass, sharp keys, loud guitar riffs and long instrument breaks filled with whirly background effects and the signature “whoa-oh” echo.
Some of their most popular albums are “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner,” “Sinsemilla” and “Chill Out.” Their album “Red” is No. 23 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 greatest albums of the 1980s.
Also on the bill are
Belgian singer Onesty, who infuses her sound with reggae, R&B and hip-hop, and Big Island reggae band Blended Rootz featuring Lopaka Rootz. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $45 general, $65 for VIP seating, available at Hilo Ukulele and Guitar, Hilo Music Exchange, Rogers Guitar in Keaau, Kona Music Exchange, Conscious Riddims in Kona, Kiernan Music in Kainaliu, Waimea General Store in Parker Square, Top Stitch and Cafe Il Mondo in Honokaa, by calling 896-4845 or online at bluesbearhawaii.com.
