Lloyd Parks, born on May 26, 1948, in Kingston, Jamaica, is a renowned reggae icon known for his soulful melodies and skillfully played bass lines. In the late 1960s, he performed with the Invincibles band, which included notable talents such as Ansell Collins, Sly Dunbar, and Ranchie McLean, before joining forces with Wentworth Vernal to form The Termites.
He launched a successful solo career, releasing a series of self-produced singles, including the massive hit "Officially" in 1973; this single also provided the title for the legendary and and highly sought-after 1973 album, now reissued for the first time.
Acknowledged as a talented studio bassist, Parks supported various reggae artists, including Justin Hinds on Duke Reid's Treasure Isle label. He was a member of Skin, Flesh and Bones, alongside Ansell Collins and Ranchie MacLean, contributing to Al Brown's hit "Here I Am Baby." When the group began recording for Channel One Studios, Parks renamed them The Revolutionaries and later joined Joe Gibbs' house band, The Professionals, showcasing his skills on hits like Althea & Donna's "Uptown Top Ranking." Throughout the 1970s, he collaborated with prominent artists such as Dennis Brown, The Abyssinians, The Itals, The Gladiators, Culture, and Prince Far I.
In 1974, Parks founded the We The People Band, accompanying Dennis Brown on tours and regularly performing at festivals like Reggae Sunsplash and Reggae Sumfest.
A long career studded with many important awards.
"Officially" is his most cherished personal gem that, after too long, finally shines once more thanks to the discovery of the quarter-inch AMPEX tapes now owned by BMG (UK) and licensed to Jamdung Records.
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