Prince Alla

Prince Alla Biography:

A true roots pioneer, a true roots fundamentalist, Prince Alla is easily said to be one of many who helped pave the way and lay a foundation for Roots Reggae to be felt across the globe. Born May 10th, 1950 as Keith Blake hailing from St. Elizabeth, Jamaica and growing up in Greenwich Town, Kingston. He started his musical journey first with a group called “The Leaders” featuring Milton Henry and Roy “Soft” Palmer.

It was Joe Gibbs who founded the group in the late ’60s, producing the groups’ first songs at Federal Recording Company. Their early recordings were that of a rocksteady vibe, Prince Alla was not always trodding the path of Rastafari.

From his youth, he had a vision and calling to Rastafari, but it wasn’t until after “The Leaders” separated that Prince Alla followed his calling. Taking a break from music he went and spent significant time at Prince Emmanuel Edward’s Bobo Hill in Bull Bay, where he learned and embodied the Rastafari livity. It wasn’t until the mid-70s that he made his grounded reemergence to music.

Encouraged by his long time bredren Bertram Brown, founder of Freedom Sounds, Prince Alla came back to the music scene ready to record what was true to him, righteous roots music. He went on to record some of his most fervent and impactful works with Freedom Sounds; “City Without Pity,” “Bucket Bottom” and “Stone” (mixed by the great King Tubby) to name a few. He did not fail to put his stamp on the reggae scene reaching the masses, adding to the force of the liberating reggae movement in the 70’s.

He went on to work with other legendary producers like Tapper Zukie giving us the definitive classic “Bosrah” and “Nah Go a Funeral” with none other than Joe Gibbs. Prince Alla would often use the prolific Soul Syndicate Band to help carry out the sound vision he had for his music. Going steady and strong Prince Alla released “Heaven is My Roof” in 1978 his first LP also produced by Tapper Zukie.

Throughout the late 70’s and 80’s he continued to release music as he saw fit. With the digital music era on the rise his music did not suffer but reached new audiences instead. Prince Alla released “Jah Children Gather Round” in 1996 an album that proved his sound could withstand any transition and test of time. Prince Alla has given the world solid and impactful works; compilations, singles, EPs. One thing that should be noted throughout the decades is that he has stayed humbly true to his roots. These days you can find the reggae veteran touring across Europe, North America and more, well-received anywhere he steps foot. Once a pioneer, always a pioneer.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Prince Alla continued to release music and collaborate with various producers and musicians. His music often addressed social and political issues, reflecting the realities of life in Jamaica and advocating for positive change. Despite facing challenges in the music industry, he remained committed to his craft and continued to perform live shows and record new material.

In the early 2000s, Prince Alla experienced a resurgence in popularity as a new generation of reggae enthusiasts discovered his music. His classic albums were reissued, and he gained recognition as a pioneering figure in the roots reggae genre. He continued to tour internationally, performing at festivals and concerts around the world.

By 2024, Prince Alla’s legacy as a reggae icon is firmly established. His contributions to the genre have inspired countless artists and fans alike, and his music remains timeless, resonating with audiences across generations. Whether through his soulful vocals, poignant lyrics, or captivating stage presence, Prince Alla continues to be celebrated as one of reggae music’s greatest talents.

A regular feature in the Unique Reggae Mix Show on Pauzeradio.com, you can often hear his new and classic works featured here. Also, check out our store with Prince Alla’s latest vinyl and CD releases.

Do you need a review, biography or press release? Book our services for your latest release here.

Prince Alla Biography updated by Gav Pauze / Pauzeradio PR Services (11th March 2024).