mighty diamonds

The Mighty Diamonds, Donald “Tabby” Shaw, Fitzroy ”Bunny” Simpson and Lloyd “ Judge” Ferguson formed in 1969 in the Trenchtown area of Kingston, Jamaica and for the past 32 years have been entertaining and educating the world with their sweet harmonies and conscious lyrics.

They quickly became known as the young group with the Motown sound with their soulful harmonies and polished performances. They first hit singles “ Country Living” and “ Hey Girl” were recorded on the Channel One label. Their debut album “ Right Time”, released on the Virgin has become a classic. Tabby, Bunny and Judge have produced over 40 albums in their long career.

“ Pass the Kouchie” also became an international hit when first released and then again when it was covered by the “ Musical Youth” and released as “Pass the Dutchie”

We made the trip to the point in Cardiff last Sunday to see this amazing band. We met up with some members of UK reggae guide, got the drinks in and started socializing. I have never been to the point, I found it a nice little venue, the bar prices were fair and the security kept in the background. The people in there were very friendly as well!

The build up to the Diamonds went on a bit with a rather crap DJ set mixing some quite nice reggae tracks with some awful dancehall numbers. The first guy on didn't get much of a reception from the crowd, I don't know who he was. The next band was the Bailey quartet. The crowd started getting warmed up but I must admit they weren't really my thing. After another rubbish DJ set The Mighty Diamond's band came on and played a couple of tracks. Eventually The Mighty Diamonds themselves came on stage and the show properly began.

They played a great set, lots of songs and lots of old favourites. We thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn't believe it was 1am when it finished! On a Sunday as well! It was a tiring drive home across the Severn bridge but well worth it!

Bob Bailey & The Jailers

The Mighty Diamond's band

Donald "Tabby" Shaw

Fitzroy "Bunny" Simpson

Lloyd "Judge" Ferguson

The Mighty Diamonds