Winston Fergus

About

UK-based Fergus began his career in 1976 as the lead singer of the Equators . The band is best remembered for ‘Father Oh Father’ on Joe Sinclair’s Klik label . As well as performing in their own right the band also provided musical backing for the up-and-coming vocalist, Pablo Gad. In 1977 Fergus, widely regarded as Gad’s benefactor, introduced the young singer to Sinclair. The introduction led to the release of Gad’s debut recordings; ‘International Dread’ and ‘Kunte Kinte’ through the Caribbean affiliated label. In the same year Fergus embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut ‘Give Me Love’, featured on Jah Jah Bus. Lightning Records signed Fergus and released ‘African Woman’. The single failed to emulate Lightning’s earlier success with Althea And Donna’s ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, although the label persevered with the singer and released ‘Long Time’. As with the previous release the single failed to crossover, which signalled the end of Fergus’ association with the label, although they later licensed ‘Long Time’ for release on Trojan Records. In 1979, Fergus released ‘Fly Natty Dread’ and a version of the classic ‘Loving Pauper’. He maintained his profile throughout the 80s working with Clement Bushay (‘Jezebel Woman’ and ‘Pay To Live’), Clive Stanhope (‘Keep On Dancing’ and ‘One Day Up’) and John Dread (‘Hope For The World’ and I Will Sing). In the early 90s Fergus demonstrated his independent stance when he set up his own Fergie Music label. His debut, ‘Get Some Shopping’, was followed by songs including ‘My Love’, ‘Yesterday’ and ‘My Own Way’ as well as the album Love Is All Around Me. In 1998, Fergus embarked on sessions with Chris Jay of Dubwise Productions, releasing ‘Rough Times’ and ‘Praise H.I.M.’.