Marcia Griffiths facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Marcia Griffiths
OJ OD
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Marcia Griffiths at Ruhr Reggae Summer 2016
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Marcia Llyneth Griffiths |
| Born | 23 November 1949 Kingston, Jamaica |
| Genres | Reggae, roots reggae |
| Occupation(s) | Vocalist |
| Years active | 1964–present |
| Associated acts | The Wailers I Threes Bob and Marcia |
Marcia Llyneth Griffiths, born on November 23, 1949, is a famous singer from Jamaica. She is best known for her hit song "Electric Boogie". This song became super popular in 1989. It is the music for a fun line dance called the "Electric Slide". "Electric Boogie" is the best-selling song ever by a female reggae singer.
Contents
Marcia Griffiths: Early Life and Music Career
Marcia Griffiths was born in West Kingston, Jamaica. She started her music career in 1964. She performed on stage with a band called Byron Lee and the Dragonaires. A musician named Phillip James heard her singing and invited her to perform.
Starting at Studio One
Her first performance was very impressive. The next day, two record labels offered her contracts. Marcia chose to record for Studio One. There, she sang many duets with other artists. These included songs with Tony Gregory and Bob Marley.
She also sang with Bob Andy. They had a long-lasting musical partnership. In 1968, Marcia had her first solo hit song. It was called "Feel Like Jumping." Other early solo hits included "Truly" and "Melody Life." Bob Andy wrote these songs for her.
Bob and Marcia Duo
From 1970 to 1974, Marcia worked with Bob Andy as a duo. They were known as Bob and Marcia. They recorded songs for the Harry J label. She also recorded music for another producer, Lloyd Charmers.
Singing with the I Threes
Between 1974 and 1981, Marcia was part of a group called the I Threes. This group was made up of three backing singers. They sang with Bob Marley & the Wailers. Marcia also continued to record her own solo music during this time. She worked with producers like Sonia Pottinger.
The "Electric Boogie" Hit
In December 1982, Marcia Griffiths released "Electric Boogie." Bunny Wailer wrote this song just for her. The song came about when Bunny Wailer and Marcia were experimenting with a rhythm box. Marcia had bought the rhythm box in Toronto. Bunny Wailer said "Electric Boogie" was inspired by Eddy Grant's song "Electric Avenue."
In early 1983, "Electric Boogie" became a top song in Jamaica. The song was remixed in 1989. This new version made the Electric Slide dance famous around the world. It reached number 51 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. This made it her most successful song. It is still the highest-selling song by a female reggae singer ever.
Later Career and Awards
Marcia Griffiths has continued to have hit songs. She has worked with producer Donovan Germain. She was also featured on the album True Love by Toots and the Maytals. This album won a Grammy Award in 2004 for Best Reggae Album. Many famous musicians were on this album.
Marcia appeared in a 2011 documentary film. It was called Reggae Got Soul: The Story of Toots and the Maytals. This film was shown on the BBC. It told the story of one of Jamaica's most important artists.
A Brazilian documentary film about Marcia was being made in 2013. It was called Reggae Meets Samba. In January 2014, Marcia announced a new album. It was called Songs That Inspire Me, Songs I Love to Sing. She recorded it with Donovan Germain. This album celebrated her 50th year in music. In January 2018, Marcia signed a deal with Donsome Records.
Personal Life
Marcia Griffiths had two children with a disc jockey named Errol Thompson. She raised her children by herself after he passed away in 1983.
Honors and Awards
Marcia Griffiths has received important honors from Jamaica.
- In August 2014, she was given the Order of Distinction (Commander class). This is a high honor in Jamaica.
- In October 2023, she received the Order of Jamaica (OJ). This is Jamaica’s fourth-highest national honor.
Music Albums
- Sweet Bitter Love (1974)
- Naturally (1978)
- Steppin (1979)
- Rock My Soul (1984)
- Marcia (1988)
- Carousel (1990)
- Indomitable (1995)
- Land of Love (1997)
- Collectors Series (1998)
- Truly (1998)
- Certified (1999)
- Reggae Max (2003)
- Shining Time (2005)
- Melody Life (2007)
- Marcia Griffiths & Friends (2012)
- Timeless (2019)
