Reggae Great, Max Romeo Dead at 80

Max Romeo, a globally recognized icon of reggae music, passed away at the age of 80 on April 11, due to heart complications. Born Maxwell Livingston Smith in Jamaica, Romeo was a significant figure in the reggae music scene, particularly known for his influential songs such as “War Ina Babylon” and “Chase the Devil.” His music, often laden with social and political commentary, resonated throughout Jamaica and beyond, echoing his country’s turbulent history of social change. As one of the leaders in the roots reggae movement, Romeo’s works not only entertained but also rallied many toward a cause of social justice and peace.

Romeo began his career in the 1960s as the lead vocalist for The Emotions, a harmony trio. However, he quickly gained international fame with his 1968 solo track “Wet Dream,” a song that was controversial for its sexually suggestive lyrics. Despite being banned by the BBC, it was a hit in the UK, symbolizing Romeo’s bold presence in the music world. Notably, it became a UK Top 10 single and spent 25 weeks on the charts, despite the controversy surrounding its lyrics. This remarkable start set him apart, marking the beginning of a prolific music career characterized by both risqué and politically charged content.

His music style took a significant ideological shift in the 1970s, as he embraced the roots reggae movement, popularized by cultural and political upheaval in Jamaica. Collaborating with legendary producer Lee “Scratch” Perry, Romeo released songs like “Let the Power Fall on I,” aligning with the People’s National Party’s themes during Jamaica’s election campaigns. His partnership with Perry resulted in the iconic album “War Ina Babylon,” a masterpiece that poked fun at political corruption and violence. It became an enduring anthem of protest, mirroring the nation’s struggles, and the title track remains one of the most powerful critique of the sociopolitical environment of the time.

“War Ina Babylon,” recorded with the Upsetters, included standout tracks such as “Chase the Devil,” which have been extensively sampled by artists across various genres, notably by The Prodigy and Kanye West. The song is still revered for its catchy rhythm and profound lyrics. According to Romeo, the devil in the song metaphorically represented the negative forces challenging one’s psyche, a reflection of his deep-seated yearning for a collective consciousness ruled by positivity and peace. Romeo’s music not only challenged norms but also provided a platform for political and spiritual introspection.

Outside of Jamaica, Romeo also made significant cultural impacts. After moving to New York City in the late 1970s, he co-wrote and starred in the musical “Reggae” and contributed to the musical projects of various global artists, including providing backing vocals for the Rolling Stones’ “Emotional Rescue.” Despite such accolades, a Marley-like breakthrough in the U.S. eluded him. Nevertheless, he remained a beloved figure in reggae, releasing numerous albums throughout his career, with his final studio album “Words From the Brave” in 2019. His influence on reggae and on music broadly continues to be felt across successive generations.