Marcia Griffiths: Truly

Today, the Jamaican music scene is rich with female singers, from Tanya Stephens to Etana, Tessanne Chin, Alaine, Cherine Anderson, Queen Ifrica, and Tami Chynn. Recently Marcia Griffiths, formerly of the I-Threes, Bob Marley’s backup vocal trio, noted: "Most of the new or upcoming female singers in reggae started out singing my songs before doing their own originals. I feel very good about that."

Marcia started her career in 1964, which means she has been a top-shelf recording artist for four and a half decade. Can you wrap your head around that? She may have hit her pinnacle internationally in 1970 with “Young, Gifted & Black” recorded as a duo with Bob Andy (as Bob & Marcia), but Marcia has had hit songs in every decade, and practically every year since her debut “Wall of Love” for Clement “Coxsone” Dodd at Studio One. Without a doubt, she is the only person that could conceivably be called the “Queen of Reggae.” Some of my personal favorites are, “Always Together” (w/Bob Andy), “Feel Like Jumping,” “Tell Me Now,” “Mark My Words” and “Truly.” Truly is the quintessential Marcia Griffiths song. It was recorded in the late 60s, and its soulful, reggae groove was arranged by legendary keyboardist, Jackie Mittoo. But make no mistake; though I am partial to that track, Marcia Griffiths is among a select few whose voice may have actually gotten better with age. She is truly a national treasure. So think of this as my flowers for Marcia. I am tired of paying tributes to people after they are gone. Marcia, this is for you.