Prince Hammer

Prince Hammer

Prince Hammer is a Jamaican reggae deejay, singer and producer, born Beris Simpson in Kingston, Jamaica, where he grows up in the south of the city. He first performs with the Vee-Jay sound system and records his first 45 in the mid-1970s under his own name, Berry or Beris Simpson, for Glen Brown.

Early recordings and name change

He later adopts the name Prince Hammer and begins producing his own work. His first label is Gold Cup, and the first singles issued on it are King Of Kings and Addis Ababa, both from 1977. Glen Brown pays for his early productions.

Performances and record shop

Clancy Eccles first presents him on stage at the Gaity Theatre. During this period he opens a shop on Orange Street called Prince Hammer Records. When Prince Far I asks to use the shop to distribute his recordings, the business is renamed Prince & Prince Records. It stays open for around a year and a half to two years.

Film and later work

Prince Hammer appears in the film Rockers in 1978. The film’s producer reportedly casts him after seeing him approach Randy’s Records. In 1979 he tours England with Prince Far I and Bim Sherman, and he also produces Rod Taylor’s set If Jah Should Come Now. After moving to England, he works with UB40, The Clash, the Boomtown Rats and the Slits. In 1982 he produces and appears on the various artists album Africa Iron Gate Showcase.