Introduction
Third World is a seminal Jamaican reggae fusion band formed in 1973 in Kingston, Jamaica. Renowned for blending reggae with elements of R&B, funk, pop, and rock, the band has become a global ambassador for Jamaican music. With a career spanning over five decades, Third World has garnered international acclaim, including nine Grammy nominations and numerous accolades for their contributions to music and culture.
Formation and Early Years
Founding Members
Third World was established by keyboardist Michael “Ibo” Cooper and guitarist/cellist Stephen “Cat” Coore, both former members of Inner Circle. They were joined by bassist Richard Daley, drummer Carl Barovier, and percussionist Irvin “Carrot” Jarrett. The band’s name, “Third World,” reflects their commitment to addressing social issues and representing marginalized communities.
Musical Beginnings
The band made their live debut in early 1974 at the Carib Theatre during Jamaica’s Independence Celebration. They quickly gained recognition for their unique sound and became one of the few fully self-contained bands in Jamaica at the time. Their early performances included backing artists such as The Jackson 5 during their first concert in Jamaica.
Musical Evolution and Style
Fusion of Genres
Third World is celebrated for its innovative fusion of reggae with various musical genres. Their sound incorporates elements of R&B, funk, pop, and rock, creating a distinctive and accessible style that has resonated with diverse audiences worldwide.
Notable Collaborations
The band’s collaborations with international artists have further cemented their global presence. In 1981, they performed alongside Stevie Wonder at the Reggae Sunsplash festival. Wonder was so impressed that he produced their 1982 hit “Try Jah Love,” which became a major success in North America. Third World has also shared stages with artists such as U2, Sting, Whitney Houston, and Lauryn Hill.
Achievements and Recognition
Grammy Nominations
Third World has been nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album nine times, with notable nominations including:
- 1983: Reggae Sunsplash ’81: A Tribute to Bob Marley
- 1988: Hold On to Love
- 1990: Serious Business
- 1993: Committed
- 1996: Live It Up
- 2000: Generation Coming
- 2004: Ain’t Givin’ Up
- 2006: Black Gold & Green
- 2020: More Work to Be Done
Despite these nominations, the band has yet to secure a Grammy win.
Lifetime Achievement Awards
In 2020, Third World was honored with the Reggae Sumfest Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of their enduring impact on reggae music. Stephen “Cat” Coore accepted the award on behalf of the band, expressing gratitude for the recognition and dedicating it to fellow musicians affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The award was presented during a virtual ceremony, highlighting the band’s resilience and continued relevance in the music industry.
Discography Highlights
Third World has released over 20 albums, with several achieving critical and commercial success:
- Journey to Addis (1978): Featured the hit single “Now That We Found Love,” which reached the top 10 in the UK.
- Try Jah Love (1982): Produced by Stevie Wonder, this album solidified the band’s international acclaim.
- Serious Business (1989): Included the single “Forbidden Love” and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
- More Work to Be Done (2019): Produced by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, this album received a Grammy nomination and featured collaborations with artists like Chronixx and Tessanne Chin.
Recent Developments
50th Anniversary Celebrations
In 2023, Third World celebrated its 50th anniversary with performances on the Love and Harmony Cruise. The band was honored with a commemorative plaque recognizing their contributions to music and culture. Stephen “Cat” Coore expressed appreciation for the recognition, emphasizing the band’s commitment to spreading messages of love and unity through their music.
Upcoming Projects
The band is currently working on a new album, produced by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, with plans for release in the near future. This project aims to continue Third World’s legacy of innovative reggae fusion and to introduce their music to new generations of listeners.
Conclusion
Third World has played a pivotal role in the evolution of reggae music, blending traditional rhythms with diverse musical influences to create a unique and enduring sound. Their commitment to social issues, innovative collaborations, and international acclaim has solidified their status as one of reggae’s most influential acts. As they continue to evolve and inspire, Third World remains a testament to the power of music in bridging cultures and promoting messages of unity and love.
