The Upsetters

Biography

The Upsetters were the influential studio band formed by legendary Jamaican producer Lee "Scratch" Perry in the late 1960s. Originally conceived as Perry's house band, The Upsetters became central to the development of reggae and dub, serving as the backbone for Perry's innovative productions at his Upsetter label and later at the iconic Black Ark studio. Their early work helped transition Jamaican music from ska and rocksteady into the heavier, syncopated rhythms that defined reggae, with hits like "People Funny Boy" and "Return of Django" establishing their reputation both in Jamaica and the UK.[2][5][6][8]

Throughout the 1970s, The Upsetters were Perry's primary collaborators, recording and performing with a rotating cast of talented Jamaican musicians. The band played a pivotal role in the creation of classic tracks for artists such as Bob Marley and the Wailers, Junior Murvin, Max Romeo, and The Congos, often blending experimental studio techniques with traditional reggae instrumentation. Their sound was marked by deep grooves, psychedelic effects, and an adventurous spirit that pushed the boundaries of Jamaican music.[1][2][8]

The Upsetters' legacy is profound: they not only helped define the sound of reggae and dub but also influenced generations of musicians worldwide. Their work with Perry laid the foundation for the international spread of reggae, and their experimental approach inspired artists in genres ranging from punk to electronic music. Today, The Upsetters are remembered as one of the most important and innovative bands in the history of Jamaican music.[1][3][8]

Fun Facts

• The Upsetters' name comes from Lee Perry's nickname, "The Upsetter," which he earned for his confrontational and rebellious attitude in the Jamaican music scene.[9]
• Their single "Return of Django" became a surprise hit in the UK, reaching the Top 5 in 1969 and helping introduce reggae to British audiences.[2]
• The Upsetters were not a fixed lineup but a rotating group of top Jamaican session musicians, including future members of The Wailers.[6]
• Lee Perry's Black Ark studio, where The Upsetters recorded many classics, was famously destroyed by Perry himself in 1983 during a period of personal crisis.[1]

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Coxsone Dodd - Lee Perry, founder of The Upsetters, began his career under Dodd at Studio One as a talent scout and producer. (Early Studio One singles) [1950s–1960s]

Key Collaborators

• Bob Marley & The Wailers - The Upsetters served as backing band and recorded seminal tracks with Marley under Perry's production. (Small Axe, Duppy Conqueror) [Late 1960s–early 1970s]
• Junior Murvin - Produced and performed on classic reggae tracks. (Police and Thieves) [1976]
• Max Romeo - Collaborated on influential albums at Black Ark studio. (War Ina Babylon) [1976]
• The Congos - The Upsetters provided instrumentation for Perry's production. (Heart of the Congos) [1977]

Artists Influenced

• The Clash - Covered Upsetters/Perry co-written tracks and adopted dub techniques. (Police and Thieves (cover)) [1977]
• Adrian Sherwood - British producer inspired by Perry's dub innovations. (Collaborations with Perry, On-U Sound productions) [1980s–2000s]
• Countless reggae and dub artists - The Upsetters' experimental style became a template for future generations. (Various reggae and dub albums) [1970s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Chase The Devil (War Ina Babylon (Expanded Edition))
2. War Ina Babylon (War Ina Babylon (Expanded Edition))
3. One Step Forward (War Ina Babylon (Expanded Edition))
4. Return of Django
5. I Chase the Devil
6. Return Of Django
7. Chase The Devil
8. Croaking Lizard (Super Ape)
9. Dollar in the Teeth
10. Return Of Django

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia