Third World

Third World

Third World is a reggae fusion band from Kingston, Jamaica, active since 1973. Its music combines reggae and roots reggae with influences from soul, funk and disco. The group forms around keyboard player Michael “Ibo” Cooper and guitarist and cellist Stephen “Cat” Coore, who both play in The Alley Cats and later in Inner Circle before setting up Third World with Inner Circle singer Milton “Prilly” Hamilton. The line-up also includes bassist Richard Daley, who has been a constant member since the band begins, after previous work with Ken Boothe’s band and Tomorrow’s Children.

Early years and line-up

Before the band’s first live performance in early 1974, Third World adds drummer Carl Barovier and percussionist Irvin “Carrot” Jarrett, who also comes from Inner Circle. Richard Daley remains the only continuous member through the group’s many line-up changes. William “Bunny Rugs” Clarke serves as lead singer from 1976 until his death in 2014, and A. J. Brown later succeeds him as vocalist. The verified membership also includes Prilly Hamilton, Willie Stewart, AJ Brown, William Clarke, Michael “Ibo” Cooper, Richie Daley, Maurice Gregory, Irvin “Carrot” Jarrett and Cat Coore.

Recordings and recognition

Third World signs to Island Records and tours Europe with The Wailers. The band’s self-titled debut album appears in 1976, followed by 96° in the Shade in 1977. Its biggest commercial success comes in the late 1970s and early 1980s with a cover of The O’Jays’ “Now That We Found Love” from the third album Journey to Addis. In June 2014, the group releases Under the Magic Sun on Cleopatra Records. More Work to be Done, released in 2019, receives a Grammy nomination in the Best Reggae Album category, its eighth nomination in that category.

Awards

Third World receives a lifetime achievement award from Charles Drew University in 2008. In January 2013, the group is presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival in Montego Bay as it marks 40 years in music.