Mikey Dread, known as "The Dread at the Controls", was one of the most influential performers and innovators in reggae music.
As well as being a reggae artist and producer with international recognition, he may best be known as the pioneer of reggae broadcasting worldwide beginning in his hometown of Port Antonio, Jamaica as selector/DJ for his sound systems, Safari and Sounds of Music, he graduated from Jamaica's College of Arts, Science and Technology before taking his landmark job at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) radio and television network in 1976. It was here he developed his "Dread At The Controls" label and trademark.
His production expertise has helped launched many artists, from Earl 16, Edi Fitzroy, Rod Taylor, Sugar Minott, Junior Murvin and the Roots Radics Band to the Clash.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Mikeys résumé grew to enviable proportions. In addition to his work with The Clash, he recorded with UB40 and helped produce the well-received "Deep Roots" documentary on Jamaican music for Channel Four TV in the United Kingdom.
On February 21st, 2007 Mikey Dread has been invited to perform and to give an interview at the “Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame,” in Cleveland, Ohio.
On March 15, 2008 he lost a battle to a brain tumor. Despite his death his legacy will continue.
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