Last month, I posted one of Alton's covers here, and reported my fears that, given that he'd been diagnosed with lymph cancer, he might not be with us much longer. http://mog.com/Baudolino/blog/190011
He seemed to have recovered from his chemotherapy, but collapsed shortly after coming off stage in London in August, and his condition deteriorated. He died earlier today.
He was a true giant of Jamaican music, and I could easily post fifty of his tracks tonight, without covering his whole career. This, however, is his best known and most covered tune, the rhythm of which has been a hit many times. It's from 1967 when he was the coolest singer in Jamaica.
Those of you who are on Myspace can pay a personal tribute here -
http://www.myspace.com/altonellisod
EDIT: With apologies to all who read this, the post above was based on no fewer than three separate sources (including one that seemed very reputable)announcing Alton's death. A few hours ago, I read on the Gleaner Website that, although gravely ill, Alton clings on to life still.
No disrespect was intended.
My Trusted MOGs
Lamentations are due unto Alton, only fitting to feature his own version of Satta Massagana ( Ahamlack Ulaghize ), meaning Give Thanks to God continually.
He will be missed.
My Trusted MOGs
So sad, he was younger than I am now. Beautiful tenor, loved the piano in this alternate take on a very familiar number which is on a number of compilations. Thanks also for the Utube clip. I remain amazed that so much vital music came pouring out of a small island...
My Trusted MOGs
Thats a bummer. I was just spinning Pressure Sound's 17 North Parade LP17 the other day. Not sure on the history of the Alton Ellis song on there called "Too Late" but man do I love that song. Easily my favorite track on the record. I will have to tip a few back and spin that track again this weekend in his honor.
http://www.discogs.com/release/1404121
My Trusted MOGs
PLEASE STOP! FOR CHRIST'S SAKE, HE IS NOT YET DEAD! I AM ALTON'S NEPHEW AND I AM IN CONSTANT CONTACT WITH MY FAMILY WHO ARE NOW AT HIS BEDSIDE. YES, HE IS VERY, VERY ILL. AND THE PROSPECTS DON'T LOOK GOOD. THE DOCTORS GAVE HIM 2 HOURS TO LIVE 36 HOURS AGO AND HE STILL HOLDING ON TO LIFE
FOR YOU TO BE PREMATURELY ANNOUNCING HIS DEATH IS INSENSITIVE AND IN POOR TASTE!
ALTON ELLIS ELLIS IS STILL ALIVE AT THE TIME OF THIS POSTING
BLAKKA ELLIS 416-332-8426
My Trusted MOGs
BLAKKA: Correction now posted, with apologies.
Marigold - "Too Late" was recorded at Randys, possibly a Herman Chin-Loy production, possibly Clive Chin, round about 1972. Augustus Pablo cut a lovely instrumental vesion on "This Is Augustus Pablo"