Steely and Clevie
Steely and Clevie Biography
Steely and Clevie: Pioneers of Dancehall Reggae
The music world has been graced by numerous influential duos, but few have left as indelible a mark as the Jamaican production duo known as “Steely and Clevie.” With their innovative approach to reggae and dancehall music, Wycliffe “Steely” Johnson and Cleveland “Clevie” Browne have become icons in the world of reggae. They have shaped the genre with their groundbreaking techniques and unforgettable rhythms.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Wycliffe “Steely” Johnson
Wycliffe “Steely” Johnson was born on August 19, 1959. Known for his exceptional keyboard skills, Steely’s journey into music began with the Youth Promotion collective, led by the legendary Sugar Minott. It was there, during the late 1970s, that Steely first made his mark, playing keyboards on Minott’s 1978 classic album Ghetto-Ology. His talent quickly caught the attention of the reggae community, and he became an integral part of the Roots Radics, a band that defined the early-’80s dancehall sound.
Cleveland “Clevie” Browne
Cleveland “Clevie” Browne was born on March 12, 1957. Clevie brought a unique flair to reggae music with his pioneering use of drum machines. A veteran of Studio One sessions and a member of his family group, the Browne Bunch, Clevie was unafraid to explore new technological possibilities. Despite initial skepticism from traditionalists, his innovative approach to rhythm and percussion soon became a hallmark of modern reggae.
The Genesis of Steely and Clevie
The duo first collaborated at the legendary Black Ark Studios, owned by Lee “Scratch” Perry, during the late 1970s. Their chemistry was undeniable, and they began to work together more frequently. By 1986, Steely and Clevie had become the house band at King Jammy’s studio. This studio was a pivotal hub for reggae music during the late ’80s. Their experiments with electronic production set them apart, propelling them to the forefront of the reggae scene.
Dominating the Dancehall Era
Breakthrough and Influence
As the 1980s progressed, Steely and Clevie established themselves as the premier production team in dancehall reggae. Their seamless fusion of electronic elements with traditional reggae rhythms revolutionized the genre. They became known for their relentless work ethic. Often, they produced an impressive volume of music, sometimes cutting upwards of ten tracks a week.
The Birth of Their Label
In 1988, the duo took a significant step by launching their own label, Steely and Clevie. This move allowed them to have greater creative control and foster new talent. They quickly garnered attention with hits from artists like Foxy Brown, Tiger, Johnny P., and Dillinger. Their “one rhythm” albums, such as Busting Out (1988), At the Top (1989), and Lion Attack (1990), became staples of the dancehall scene.
Collaborations and Legacy
Iconic Collaborations
Steely and Clevie’s influence extended beyond reggae, as they collaborated with international artists. These include Maxi Priest, Shabba Ranks, Aswad, Sean Paul, and Caron Wheeler. Their work with Billy Ocean on his 1993 album Time to Move On further cemented their reputation as versatile and innovative producers.
A Lasting Impact
The duo’s production of Dawn Penn’s “You Don’t Love Me (No No No)” in 1994 became a global hit, reaching the Billboard Hot 100. This success highlighted their ability to bridge cultural and musical gaps, bringing reggae to a broader audience.
Challenges and Triumphs
Legal Battles
In 2021, Steely’s estate and Clevie filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group and Warner-Chappell Publishing. The suit claimed ownership over a significant portion of reggaeton songs that utilized the duo’s Fish Market riddim. This riddim was foundational to the genre’s Dem Bow riddim. This legal battle underscores the lasting influence of their work.
Steely’s Passing
Tragically, Wycliffe “Steely” Johnson passed away on September 1, 2009, due to heart failure. He had been battling health issues, including pneumonia and complications from a blood clot. His death was a significant loss to the music world, but his legacy lives on through the timeless music he created.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation
Steely and Clevie’s contribution to reggae and dancehall music is immeasurable. Their innovative use of technology, combined with their deep understanding of traditional reggae rhythms, paved the way for future generations of musicians. Although Steely is no longer with us, Cleveland “Clevie” Browne continues to produce and influence the music industry. Together, they have left a lasting legacy that will resonate for years to come. Their names remain synonymous with the evolution of reggae music.
