10 Facts about Desmond Dekker

Facts about Desmond Dekker will tell you about the notable Jamaican reggae, ska and rocksteady musician, songwriter, and singer. He was born on 16th July 1941 and died on 25th May 2006. “Israelites” (1968) is considered as one of his international reggae hits that Dekker released along with the Aces. It was the backing group of Dekker. The members of the group were Easton Barrington Howard and Wilson James. Let’s check other interesting facts about Desmond Dekker below:

Facts about Desmond Dekker 1: other wonderful hits of Dekker

If you are interested to listen to the other wonderful hits of Dekker, you can check “You Can Get It If You Really Want” (1970), “It Mek” (1969) and “007 (Shanty Town)” (1967).

Facts about Desmond Dekker 2: the birthplace and full name

The birthplace of Dekker was located in Saint Andrew Parish, Jamaica. His full name was Desmond Adolphus Dacres. But he chose Desmond Dekker as his stage name.

Desmond Dekker facts

Facts about Desmond Dekker 3: the early life

He spent most of the time in the capital of Jamaica, Kingston during his formative period. He would go with his aunt and grandmother to the local church regularly. He developed religious commitment and enjoyed singing hymns due to his religious background.

Facts about Desmond Dekker 4: the previous job

Dekker had to relocate to St. Mary and St. Thomas after the death of his mother.  He worked as a welder in Kingston after becoming an apprentice as a tailor in St. Thomas. Check facts about Dezi Arnaz here.

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Facts about Desmond Dekker 5: the career in music

Dekker was encouraged by his co-workers to pursue a career in the music industry due to his incredible singing.

Facts about Desmond Dekker 6: an audition

Dekker struggled to break the musical industry. He was not successful when auditioning for Coxsone Dodd (Studio One) and Duke Reid (Treasure Isle) in 1961.

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Facts about Desmond Dekker 7: the first recording contract

Dekker finally earned a recording contract after he auditioned for Leslie Kong’s Beverley’s record label. But he had to wait for 2 years to spot his record launched in the market. Get facts about Dean Martin here.

Facts about Desmond Dekker 8: “Honour Your Mother and Father”

The musical career of Dekker was established due to the release of his single “Honour Your Mother and Father” in 1963. Dekker wrote the song.

Desmond Dekker Pictures

Facts about Desmond Dekker 9: other tracks released

After releasing his Jamaican hit, “Labour for Learning” and “Sinners Come Home” were launched in the market.

Facts about Desmond Dekker 10: the biggest star

He secured the position as the biggest star in Jamaica after releasing the fourth single “King of Ska”.

Facts about Desmond Dekker

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