Leroy Sibbles

Leroy Sibbles
Leroy Sibbles is one of the founders of reggae music. He is considered a ‘living legend’ by fans and students of reggae. Born in Kingston, Jamaica Leroy began his career as the lead singer of the rock steady group, The Heptones. While playing with The Heptones, he recorded many classic reggae tunes including Party Time, Fatty Fatty, Book Of Rules, Baby Be True and Heptones Gonna Fight . Leroy also played an integral role in the creation of many of the famous ‘Studio One’ rhythm tracks frequently sampled and re-recorded today. He wrote and arranged many of the Studio One ‘classics’ as well as played bass and provided harmony.
Leroy moved to Toronto in the mid-70’s where he lived for 20 years. During his residence, Leroy helped establish reggae music in Canada and was often described as ‘the Godfather of reggae in Canada’ and the ‘sweetest singer in the business’. He also released 6 solo albums while residing in Toronto. They are: Now, Strictly Roots, On Top, The Best (Micron Music), Meanwhile (Attic) and Evidence (A&M).
Leroy returned to Jamaica in 1994 and is now based there. Since his return he has been touring extensively in the Europe, United Kingdom, Japan and the United States. He released two CD’s entitled It’s Not Over (1996) and Rock and Come On (1999) as well as a dozen new singles including his latest Harry Hippie (2009), a remake of a Bobby Womack tune. Leroy’s version of Harry Hippie is pure magic and is backed by some of reggae’s top musicians. He has also co-authored tunes with the dancehall greats: Buju Banton and Beenie Man.
Leroy participated in the 2009 documentary ‘Get Ready Rock Steady’ which also includes many other reggae greats including: Marcia Griffiths, Rita Marley, Judy Mowatt, Ken Boothe, Dawn Penn, Hopeton Lewis, U-Roy, Bongo Herman, Lloyd Parks, The Tamlins, Derrick Morgan, Sly Dunbar, Stranjah Cole and is receiving great reviews.
When you see Leroy perform it is immediately evident that you are in for a treat. His mastery of the stage is second to none in the business. He has the unique ability to engage audiences of all age groups and his repertoire of hits spans four decades.