Derrick “Duckie” Simpson (a.k.a “Gong Gong Gullie”) is the founder and leader for reggae legends BLACK UHURU. In 1983, they were the first reggae band to win a Grammy award for their Anthem album. Critics have labeled Black Uhuru “The most dynamic and progressive reggae act of the 1970s and early ’80s.” For over 50 years, they have remained one of the most recognized and prolific reggae bands in the world.

Black Uhuru Live on Stage with CALI Strong Gear

Because of Duckie Simpson’s perennial leadership, tireless work ethic, and his unique vision, Black Uhuru remains one of the best reggae bands alive. Duckie’s ability to reinvigorate Black Uhuru’s roster when necessary, from his Waterhouse roots (like he did with singer Andrew Bees and Michael Rose, as well as other current and former band members), has kept the band relevant.

Black Uhuru performs to a jubilant California crowd in 2016!

BLACK UHURU’s long success has made them internationally recognized ambassadors of reggae while earning several achievements in the music industry. With an extensive portfolio of 14 full-length albums, seven instrumental dub albums, and four live albums, Black Uhuru has sold more records than any other individual reggae performer or group other than Bob Marley and the Wailers. The album Red was voted number 23 on Rolling Stone’s list of “100 Greatest Albums of the 1980′s. Besides winning the first reggae Grammy, they have been nominated five more times. In 1994, they were the only reggae group to have won the Diamond Awards of Excellence.

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The birth of Black Uhuru took place in Kingston Jamaica’s Waterhouse district in the early 60′s by Euvin “Don Carlos” Spencer, Rudolph “Garth” Dennis, and Derrick “Duckie” Simpson. Also known as “Firehouse,” it was considered to be one of the toughest neighborhoods in Jamaica’s. Waterhouse was the home to numerous other future reggae icons. The Waterhouse district was where Duckie Simpson grew up to learn to sing from boyhood friends like Winston “Pipe” Matthews and Lloyd “Bread” McDonald of Wailing Souls and Bob Marley. Duckie recorded four tracks with Wailing Souls before starting Black Uhuru. “Uhuru” is the Swahili word for “Freedom.”

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson (Right) & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru represent California.

The original Black Uhuru only recorded a few singles “Folk Songs,” “Time Is On Our Side,” and “Slow Coach” before separating. During a time when the band had a tough time securing a record contract, Euvin “Don Carlos” Spencer left to seek a solo career and Rudolph “Garth” Dennis joined the Wailing Souls.

Dickie has remained the single constant thread throughout Black Uhuru’s history. He reorganized the band with great talents like lead vocalist Michael Rose and Errol “Jay” Wilson. He then built a stellar rhythm section featuring Robbie Shakespeare on bass and Sly Dunbar on drums. Black Uhuru became the reggae ensemble that set the standard for future bands. In 1977, their groundbreaking debut album, Love Crisis, included the iconic reggae anthem “I Love King Selassie.”

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru sport CALI Strong kicks for tonight's performance

Black Uhuru had scheduled their new album for 2016, but Derrick “Duckie” Simpson has stated that production will be delayed until 2017 because the album is expected to feature several collaborations that need more time in the studio.

Derrick "Duckie" Simpson & Andrew Bees of Black Uhuru sport CALI Strong kicks for tonight's California performance.

https://www.facebook.com/BlackUhuruOfficial/

About the Author: Jim Stroesser, “The Brand Master”

With nearly four decades of experience, Jim Stroesser is a driving force in the world of global consumer branding across the sports, fashion, and entertainment industries. His journey from tech rep to CEO of iconic brands showcases his unparalleled ability to transform and elevate businesses.

As Co-Founder and CEO of CALI Strong, a direct-to-consumer sports brand based in San Diego, CA, Jim leads the charge in creating premium sports apparel, footwear, and equipment that embody the California lifestyle.

His legacy as an industry turnaround expert was cemented at Converse, where he spearheaded the brand's resurgence from bankruptcy, elevating its sales from $120 million to $285 million and finally a $305 million acquisition by Nike – a landmark deal that reshaped the industry.

Jim's expertise extends to leadership roles at Nike, Quiksilver, Oakley, LA Gear, Roxy, RL, Pony, Bob Marley and Adio. He currently serves on several boards, including SDSI, where he mentors emerging companies alongside Chairman Bill Walton.