Culture

Formed in the rich tradition of harmony trios in 1976, Culture quickly became a part of the vibrant politically charged Jamaican reggae scene of the day. Originally known as the African Disciples, the line-up consisted of Joseph Hill (lead vocals), Albert Walker (backing vocals) and Kenneth Dayes (backing vocals).

Shortly after Culture came together, they began working with the 'Mighty Two' - producer Joe Gibbs and engineer Errol Thompson. While at Gibbs studio, the singers recorded a series of powerful singles, many of which ended up on their successful debut album 'Two Sevens Clash'. This initial release was hugely popular in both Jamaica and England. The lyrics demonstrated Hill's keen awareness of the connection between Jamaica's history and its current social climate. While the songs may have been dealing with serious issues, at the same time the group always recognized the value of a catchy beat - a sensibility shared by U.K. punks at the time.

After their success with Gibbs, the group went on to make a string of albums for producer Sonia Pottinger. Culture began working with some ofthe premier musicians of the day including Robbie Shakespeare, Sly Dunbar, Ansel Collins, Cedric Brooks and the ever-present percussionist Sticky. Virgin Records picked up the albums, and that added distribution enabled Culture to gain an even larger following outside of Jamaica.

In 1982 the three singers went their own ways.

Today, Culture consists of Hill, Walker and Telford Nelson. After a lengthy career on his own, Nelson joined on harmony vocals in 1999. In concert the group is currently backed by the DC based band 'Forces of Justice'. These accomplished musicians have been behind Culture for many years, playing several well-received tours in Europe, Africa, and North America. Culture continues to be in demand in the studio as well.

While Culture has now been around for 27 years, Joseph Hill and friends are showing no signs of slowing down. As reggae music goes, a Culture Concert is both a tribute to the past and a glimpse of the future...Not to mention a whole lot of fun!

2006 UPDATE

Following the release of World Peace in 2003 Culture continued to actively tour around the world. In 2004 they played at the first edition of the highly successful Montreal Reggae Festival. Joseph Hill was inducted into the Reggae Walk of Fame, and was presented an Independence Award by the Jamaican Prime Minister in 2005. In 2006, the group performed a number of concerts including 'Bob Marley 61st Birthday Celebration' in Ghana and Reggae Sunspash.

Joseph Hill suddenly became ill while the group were on tour in Europe and passed away in Berlin, Germany on August 19, 2006. The group decided to finish the European tour with Kenyatta Hill (Joseph's son and Culture's audio engineer) singing lead vocals as a tribute to his father. On September 8th, a tribute concert took place in Kingston, Jamaica and featured an all-star line-up of artists that ranged from Luciano to Bunny Wailer. A memorial service for Hill took place in Kingston the following day. Tentative plans are for Kenyatta Hill to continue to tour and record in his father's place with Culture.