Burning Spear

In 1969, Burning Spear, or Winston Rodney (his original name), began his original career at Studio One with the single "Door Peep". The name Burning Spear was a tribute to Jomo Kenyatta, first president of Kenya (it means smoldering spear; Burning Spear was the name the leader assumed when fighting the English for independence) — which sets the tone of his work, marked by political militancy and Rasta faith.

In the 70s he made some of his best albums for Island Records: "Marcus Garvey", "Man in The Hills", "Dry & Heavy" and "Social Living". In his shows he gives himself over, writhes, cries out, weeps — a performance that always happens during the song "Slavery Days", an emotional lament about slavery. His firmness in Rasta belief can be summed up in this statement:

I don't sing to make anyone believe in Selassie or in what I defend. I sing about what I know is right.

Spear has been nominated for the Grammy several times, winning two with the albums "Calling Rastafari" from 2000, and "Jah is Real" from 2009. Spear not only produced great work that ranks among the best in world reggae, but also toured the world many times.

His shows attract a large audience of all ages, and this has been happening for about 30 years. As a musical prophet, he has always had a deep cultural and spiritual focus throughout his career. One of the most addressed themes in his songs is Marcus Garvey, one of the greatest activists in the history of the black nationalist movement.

Burning's future promises to be even more productive, but to understand where he is heading, his past must be examined. His career began in 1969 when he recorded "Door Deep" and the artist has remained at the top of all charts and in public favor ever since. His shows usually draw large crowds and his albums are absolute critical and commercial successes.