Max Romeo Celebrates His 80th Birthday with the Reissue of a Rare Album: Every Man Ought To Know

© Peter Simon

November 22, 2024, marks an important milestone in the world of reggae: the legendary Max Romeo turns 80. To celebrate this occasion, one of his early albums, Every Man Ought To Know, produced by the iconic Bunny "Striker" Lee and mixed at King Tubby’s, is being reissued. For the first time, this rare gem is available on all digital and streaming platforms.

Max Romeo: A Legendary Career

While Max Romeo is best known for his groundbreaking work with the visionary producer Lee "Scratch" Perry in the 1970s, which gave birth to timeless classics like War In A Babylon, One Step Forward, and Chase The Devil (famously sampled by The Prodigy), his early music is equally pivotal in the development of reggae.

Romeo’s collaboration with Bunny "Striker" Lee, aka "The Gorgon," began with the controversial track Wet Dream, a huge hit in the UK that climbed into the top 10 of the pop charts. This partnership produced some of the most daring and innovative tracks of the era, helping shape the reggae genre as we know it today.

An Album of Boldness, Soul, and Spirituality

Every Man Ought To Know is much more than just an album; it’s a glimpse into a pivotal time in reggae’s evolution. The record features an exciting mix of songs. Provocative tracks like Pussy Watch Man sit alongside soulful covers such as Sometimes (originally sung by Gene Thomas) and Stick By Me (made famous by John Holt).

The album also includes early "message music," promoting the teachings of the Rastafarian faith, most notably in the title track Every Man Ought To Know. This track encapsulates Romeo's intent to fuse music with spiritual and social consciousness.

A Hidden Treasure, Now Remastered

Far from just a nostalgic reissue, this remastered version of Every Man Ought To Know offers a fresh look at a rare and essential piece of reggae history. Remastered with care, the album captures a rich, innovative period in Jamaican music.

With this reissue, Max Romeo reminds us why he remains one of the most respected figures in international music. This project offers fans old and new a chance to explore an often-overlooked aspect of his work, while celebrating an artist whose impact extends far beyond his native island.

As Max Romeo celebrates his 80th birthday, this album, now available on all digital platforms, is the perfect gift for longtime fans and newcomers alike. A must-have addition to any serious reggae collection.

Head over now to rediscover Every Man Ought To Know and celebrate the legacy of a reggae giant!