The I Threes

The I Threes were a Jamaican reggae vocal trio formed in the 1970s, known for their soulful harmonies and spiritual lyrics, often collaborating with renowned artists such as Bob Marley and the Wailers. The group's music was heavily influenced by Jamaican culture, Rastafari movement, and African diaspora traditions, reflecting the social and political climate of Jamaica during that time. As a key part of the reggae music scene, The I Threes worked with notable producers like Lee "Scratch" Perry and Clement "Coxsone" Dodd, and were associated with prominent record labels such as Island Records and Studio One. Their unique sound was shaped by the vibrant musical landscape of Kingston, Jamaica, where they often performed alongside other influential artists, including Toots and the Maytals and The Skatalites.

History

The I Threes were formed in the early 1970s, emerging from the Jamaican music scene that was characterized by the rise of ska, rocksteady, and reggae genres. The group's history is closely tied to the development of reggae music, which was heavily influenced by American soul music, calypso, and mento. As The I Threes gained popularity, they began to work with prominent artists, including Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer, and were featured on various reggae festivals, such as the Reggae Sunsplash and One Love Peace Concert. Their music was also shaped by the social and political context of Jamaica during the 1970s, with influences from Marcus Garvey's Pan-Africanism and the Rastafari movement, which emphasized African identity and social justice. The I Threes' history is also connected to the Bob Marley and the Wailers' story, as they often toured and recorded with the band, performing at notable venues like the Lyceum Theatre in London and the Roxy Theatre in Los Angeles.

Members

The I Threes consisted of three female vocalists: Rita Marley, Judy Mowatt, and Marcia Griffiths. Each member brought their unique voice and style to the group, with Rita Marley being the wife of Bob Marley and a talented singer in her own right, having worked with artists like Jimmy Cliff and Toots Hibbert. Judy Mowatt was a skilled singer and songwriter, known for her work with The Gaylettes and her solo career, which included collaborations with Sly and Robbie and Errol Brown. Marcia Griffiths was a veteran singer, having started her career in the 1960s with The I Threes and later becoming a successful solo artist, with hits like "Feel Like Jumping", produced by Duke Reid and released on Treasure Isle Records. The members of The I Threes were all influential figures in the Jamaican music industry, with connections to other notable artists, such as Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, and John Holt.

Music Style

The I Threes' music style was characterized by their soulful, harmonious vocals and a unique blend of reggae, roots reggae, and rocksteady influences. Their sound was shaped by the Jamaican musical tradition, which emphasized percussion, bass guitar, and keyboard instrumentation, often featuring instruments like the drum kit, bass guitar, and Hammond organ. The group's music often incorporated elements of African American music, such as gospel music and soul music, reflecting the cultural exchange between Jamaica and the United States. The I Threes' style was also influenced by the Rastafari movement, with lyrics that often explored themes of social justice, equality, and spirituality, similar to those found in the music of Burning Spear and The Gladiators. Their music was produced by notable producers, including Chris Blackwell and Alex Sadkin, who worked with other prominent artists, such as The Police and The Clash.

Discography

The I Threes released several albums, including "Beginning" and "Many Are Called", which featured a mix of original songs and reggae covers of popular American soul music and rock music hits. Their discography includes collaborations with other artists, such as Bob Marley and the Wailers and Toots and the Maytals, and reflects the group's eclectic style, which incorporated elements of funk, soul, and rock music. The I Threes' music was released on various record labels, including Island Records, Shanachie Records, and RAS Records, and has been reissued on CD and vinyl formats by labels like Universal Music and Sony Music. Their discography is a testament to the group's contribution to the reggae music genre, which has influenced a wide range of artists, from The Specials to Sublime.

Performances

The I Threes performed at numerous reggae festivals and concerts, including the One Love Peace Concert and the Reggae Sunsplash, alongside other notable artists, such as Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer. They also toured with Bob Marley and the Wailers, performing at venues like the Hammersmith Odeon in London and the Greek Theatre in Berkeley, California. The I Threes' live performances were known for their energetic and soulful delivery, featuring intricate harmonies and a strong stage presence, which has been praised by critics and fans alike, including Rolling Stone and The New York Times. Their performances have been documented on various live albums and DVDs, including "Live at the Lyceum", which captures the group's dynamic energy and showcases their unique sound, influenced by Jamaican culture and African diaspora traditions. Category:Reggae music groups