Hugh Mundell
| Hugh Mundell | |
|---|---|
| Also known as | The Blessed Youth, Jah Levi |
| Born | 14 June 1962 East Kingston, Jamaica |
| Died | October 1983 Kingston, Jamaica |
| Genres | Reggae |
| Occupations | Singer |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Years active | 1975–1983 |
Hugh Mundell (June 14, 1962 – October 14, 1983) was a Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter.
[edit] Biography
Mundell was introduced to reggae by reggae performer and producer Boris Gardiner who was a friend of the family (but did not live next door to Hugh, contrary to popular rumor). With Gardiner's assistance, Mundell recorded his first single "Where Is Natty Dread?" with producer Joe Gibbs at the age of 13.[1]
In 1978, at the age of 16, he recorded the album Africa Must Be Free By 1983, produced by Augustus Pablo, with Mundell writing all the songs. It included two Black Ark-recorded titles: "Let's All Unite" and "Why Do Black Man Fuss & Fight", both supervised and mixed by Lee Perry. The album received five stars from Rolling Stone magazine[2] and was included in Tom Moon's 2008 book, 1,000 Recordings to Hear Before You Die.
Mundell recorded several 12" singles under the alias Jah Levi.[3]
Mundell was shot to death in 1983 while sitting in a vehicle with friend and fellow musician Junior Reid in Kingston, Jamaica.[3] At the time of his death, Mundell had produced five LPs and numerous singles.[4]
