Pioneer of British Lovers Rock Reggae, Vivian Jones, passes at 68

Vivian Jones, a trailblazer in the British lovers rock reggae scene, passed away on October 27 at the age of 68. His death was announced via social media and the German reggae platform, reggaeville.com. Born in Trelawny, Jamaica, Jones moved to the United Kingdom in 1968, where he became a prominent figure in the 1970s sound system culture. His career soared in 1979 with the release of his hit single *Good Morning*, which was followed by other notable tracks like *Sugar Love* and *Strong Love* in the 1980s. In a 2014 interview with the *Jamaica Observer*, Jones expressed his enthusiasm for the revival of lovers rock, citing documentaries and the success of artist Bitty McLean as key factors. ‘People want the real reggae, and lovers rock is real reggae,’ he remarked. Raised in Willesden, a London neighborhood with a significant Caribbean community, Jones began his career as a deejay and later performed with bands such as The Spartans, The Mighty Vibes, The Pieces, and Ruff Cutt. His UK hits during the late 1970s included *Black Gold and Green* and *Who’s Going to Get Caught (In Babylon Trap)*. Alongside artists like Maxi Priest, Peter Hunnigale, Janet Kay, and Carroll Thompson, Jones played a pivotal role in popularizing lovers rock. His collaborations extended to Jamaica, where he worked with legendary producers Bobby Digital and Sly and Robbie during a visit 11 years ago.