Puma Jones facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Puma Jones
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Puma Jones on the back cover of the Black Uhuru album Red, 1981.
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Sandra Jones |
| Born | October 5, 1953 |
| Origin | Columbia, South Carolina |
| Died | January 28, 1990 (aged 36) |
| Genres | Reggae |
| Years active | c.1975–1987 |
Sandra "Puma" Jones (born October 5, 1953, died January 28, 1990) was a talented American singer. She was famous for being part of the reggae band Black Uhuru. This group even won a Grammy Award!
Contents
Puma Jones's Amazing Music Career
Early Life and Journey to Music
Puma Jones was born in Columbia, South Carolina. She went to Columbia University in New York City. There, she earned a special degree called a master's degree. After college, she worked as a social worker.
Puma also loved to dance. She studied African dance with a group called the Chuck Davis troupe. Later, she felt like she needed to explore her roots. So, she decided to move to Jamaica.
Starting Her Singing Path
In Jamaica, Puma decided to become a singer. For a short time, she sang with Miriam Makeba. Miriam Makeba was also known as Mama Africa. Puma also sang with a band called Sons of Negus. This band was led by Ras Michael.
In 1978, a friend introduced her to Derrick "Duckie" Simpson. He was the leader of the reggae group Black Uhuru. The band was changing its members at that time. Another singer, Michael Rose, also joined.
Joining Black Uhuru and Success
Puma Jones became a full member of Black Uhuru. She sang on seven studio albums with the group. Her first album with them was Showcase in 1979.
She also sang on the very popular album Red in 1981. In 1983, they released Anthem. This album was a huge success! It won a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 1985. This was the first time that award was ever given out.
Puma's Unique Contribution
Puma Jones was known for adding special lyrics to Black Uhuru songs. These lyrics often talked about religious and social topics. This was important because some people thought reggae music at the time didn't focus enough on serious issues. Puma was also famous for her unique and memorable voice.
Her last full album with Black Uhuru was Brutal in 1986. This album was also nominated for a Grammy Award. It even became popular in New Zealand and the Netherlands.
Later Years
Before they started recording the album Positive in 1987, Puma became ill. She had to leave Black Uhuru. Another singer named Olafunke took her place. Puma Jones returned to the United States for treatment. She passed away at the age of 36 on January 28, 1990. She was buried near her family's home in South Carolina.
