| Don Carlos | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Ervin Spencer |
| Born | 29 June 1952 |
| Origin | Kingston, Jamaica |
| Genres | Reggae |
| Years active | 1972–present |
| Associated acts | Black Uhuru |
Don Carlos a.k.a. Don McCarlos (born Ervin Spencer, 29 June 1952) is a Jamaican reggae singer and composer.[1]
He was born and raised in Western Kingston, Jamaica in a very deprived district known as Waterhouse out of which came many talented reggae musicians. One such artist was King Tubby, one of the founders of Black Uhuru, The Jays, Junior Reid and King Jammy. Don Carlos began singing in 1973 as a member of Black Uhuru. He sang alongside Garth Dennis and Derrick Simpson the leader of the trio. Don played a key role in the recordings of the highly acclaimed Love Crisis album, produced by Prince Jammy in 1977 which was later re-released as The Black Sounds of Freedom. After some time finding his sound as a soloist Carlos blossomed in May 1981 releasing the heavy cultural roots album Suffering for Negus Roots.
He has since become very popular in the live scene and has released twelve solo albums working alongside Gold, his backup vocalist and co writer. Some of his most notable albums include Harvest Time, Day to Day Living and Them Never Know a Natty Dread were released in 1982. Spread Out also released in 1982 commonly known now as Laser Beam had many fan favorites.
Though Carlos' solo peak period was during the 80's dance hall craze he still maintains his roots flavor and awesome melodies to this day. In 1988 he recorded Jingle Bells with Glenice Spenser on A Reggae Christmas on RAS Records. In 1990 he re-united as the lead vocal for a Black Uhuru album. Don continues to grow in popularity and still performs all over the world.