Barrington Levy

Barrington Levy brings his unmistakable tenor to Chalk, Brighton on 17 May 2026. Known as the “Mellow Canary” for his high, melodic delivery, he emerged at the turn of the 1980s alongside producer Henry “Junjo” Lawes and the Roots Radics, helping to set the blueprint for modern dancehall. From early breakthroughs like Collie Weed and the albums Englishman and Bounty Hunter to staples such as Here I Come, Under Mi Sensi, Black Roses and Too Experienced, his catalogue bridges reggae, rub‑a‑dub and early digital rhythms. His vocal lines have been sampled across jungle and drum’n’bass, and collaborations with artists like Snoop Dogg, Gorillaz and Shyne show how far his sound travels.

Tippa Irie joins as special guest. A Brixton-born singer and fast-chat MC shaped by the Saxon Studio International soundsystem, he made his name in the mid‑80s with BBC Radio 1 support and singles including It’s Good To Have The Feeling You’re The Best and Complain Neighbour, before landing a UK Top 40 with Hello Darling. Expect sharp toasting, nimble wordplay and classic dancehall energy.