For nearly 20 years, Roy Dayes toured the world as a member of Culture, one of roots-reggae’s most influential groups.

But in 1993, he decided to pack it in and go solo.

“Mi tour di whole world an’ all yuh can get is pure promotion, no money. After a while, mi get tired a di promotion,” he said.

Known as Kenneth Culture, Dayes performs regularly at local events. His latest gig is Live At Bourbon Beach in Negril, tomorrow.

 

Much of his live set is built around Culture classics such as Jah Jah See Dem a Come and Two Sevens Clash, as well as songs from his self-produced album, Still Have Got Love.The Kingston-born Dayes, along with Joseph Hill and Albert Walker from Linstead, started Culture in 1975. Hill, the charismatic leader, died in 2006.

Hill’s son, Kenyatta, helps keep the group’s banner flying through constant touring. Dayes hopes the group will reunite.

L-R Joseph Hill, Albert Walker and Kenneth Dayes

“Him soun’ jus’ like him father. Him have a great energy wey me an’ Albert can work wid,” he said.

Singers Little John, Super Blacks and Michael Dawkins are some of the other acts on Live At Bourbon Beach.

— Howard Campbell