Vivian Jackson (Yabby You) – Conquering Lion

11th August 2022 · 1970s, 1972, Music, Reggae

The opening chant of Vivian Jackson’s debut single in 1972 is what gave him his nickname of Yabby You (or sometimes Yabby U).

Also known as the Jesus Dread for his belief in Jesus rather than the Rastas’ godhead, Haile Selassie, he was an important figure in the development of reggae.

Jackson was crippled by childhood arthritis, caused by malnutrition, and walked with a limp that prevented him working.

But he was able to make music and formed a vocal trio called The Prophets to perform his deeply religious songs.

Most of his tunes featured a dub version by King Tubby on the B-side, and they collaborated on an excellent album King Tubby’s Prophesy of Dub.

As a producer, he helped launch the careers of several other singers including Michael Prophet, Wayne Wade and Tony Tuff.

He died in 2010, a decade after this, his first release, was remixed by Bristol duo Smith & Mighty.